In a high-profile move to address their scoring woes, the Anaheim Ducks have acquired Chris Kreider from the New York Rangers, signaling their intent to return to playoff contention. The trade, reported by multiple outlets, sends Kreider and a mid-round draft pick to Anaheim in exchange for 20-year-old prospect Carey Terrance and a draft pick swap.
How Chris Kreider’s career evolved
Kreider is one of the most prolific goal scorers in Rangers history. He ranks third in all-time franchise goals and first in playoff goals. Despite an injury-ridden 2024–25 season where he managed just 22 goals and 8 assists in 68 games, his power-play presence remains elite. He’s tallied the fifth-most power-play goals in the NHL over the past four seasons.
Anaheim finished 30th in goal scoring last season and had the league’s worst power play. By adding Kreider, who has notched 20 or more goals in 10 of his 13 NHL seasons, the Ducks are taking a major step toward solving those issues. The Ducks also absorb Kreider’s full $6.5 million salary for the next two seasons. This helps them meet the NHL’s salary cap floor.
Full Chris Kreider trade details
The deal also reunites Kreider with several former teammates in Anaheim, including Jacob Trouba, Ryan Strome, and Frank Vatrano. This adds to his potential comfort in the new locker room. Kreider, who waived a 15-team no-trade clause, will play under head coach Joel Quenneville, aiming to bounce back to his usual 30-40 goal pace.
Why the Rangers traded Chris Kreider now
For the New York Rangers, the move clears cap space and symbolizes a significant roster overhaul. Terrance, Anaheim’s 2023 second-round pick, is a promising two-way center. He recently captained the OHL’s Erie Otters and contributed to Team USA’s gold medal win at the World Juniors.
This trade not only ends Kreider’s 13-year tenure in New York but also positions both teams for future success. Anaheim is now a buyer building around young stars, and New York is a seller preparing for a new era.