Story perspectives

Ducks Waive Chris Kreider, Setting Up Free Agency

9/10/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Anaheim Ducks placed veteran forward Chris Kreider on waivers.
Kreider enters the final season of a seven-year deal with a $6.5 million cap hit and $4 million salary.
If he clears waivers, he will become an unrestricted free agent, Elliotte Friedman reported.
Kreider said he wants to return to the East Coast to be nearer family.
The move follows cap-tight discussions about restricted-free-agent Cutter Gauthier and Leo Carlsson’s $90 million offer sheet.

History

Historical Context

After 2005’s oil price surge and slowing trade growth prompted firms to tighten budgets, the NHL adopted strict salary-cap rules that now shape roster moves. In 2024, the New York Rangers placed Chris Kreider on waivers while the Anaheim Ducks trimmed a $6.5 million cap hit, echoing the league’s long-standing fiscal discipline.

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Story summary

The Anaheim Ducks placed veteran forward Chris Kreider on waivers.
Kreider enters the final season of a seven-year deal with a $6.5 million cap hit and $4 million salary.
If he clears waivers, he will become an unrestricted free agent, Elliotte Friedman reported.
Kreider said he wants to return to the East Coast to be nearer family.
The move follows cap-tight discussions about restricted-free-agent Cutter Gauthier and Leo Carlsson’s $90 million offer sheet.

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