After NY Rangers exit, Chris Kreider sends clear signal to Ducks ahead of bold new chapter in NHL career

Chris Kreider arrived early for a Monday workout at Prentiss Hockey Performance, his long-time summer training ground. Surrounded by jerseys of current and former NHL players, his own jersey stood out — a symbol of a legacy built with the New York Rangers over more than a decade.

The 34-year-old winger, now facing a significant transition, lounged at the front desk pretending to do office work. Former Rangers teammates Adam Fox and Brett Berard walked past. Berard, notably, wore a Boston College shirt — a nod to Kreider’s alma mater. It was a moment of comfort in familiar territory before stepping into the unknown.

For the first time in his career, Kreider is no longer a Ranger. Traded to the Anaheim Ducks in exchange for a third-round pick and prospect Carey Terrance, the move marks the end of an era. Drafted 19th overall in 2009, Kreider became a franchise staple — third all-time in goals, first in playoff goals, and a constant presence from the 2014 Stanley Cup run to the present day.

When asked about leaving New York, Kreider replied with a grin, “Good,” he told The Athletic. Then, after a pause, “Bit of a loaded question.” A brief response — but a clear signal that he’s at peace with the move and ready to lead a young Ducks roster into a new chapter.

Chris Kreider #20 with the New York Rangers celebrates a first period goal by Artemi Panarin #10 (not shown) against Sam Montembeault #35 of the Montreal Canadiens at Madison Square Garden on November 30, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)

A gradual goodbye and a promising new start

The transition has been anything but rushed. Unlike many NHL trades that strike midseason, Kreider’s exit occurred in the offseason — giving him time to process the shift. “There are brush points where it’s kind of like ‘this is happening, for sure,’” Kreider said, referring to the surreal moment he suited up in Ducks gear for the first time.

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Although Anaheim was initially on his no-trade list, Kreider approved the move after discussions with his family. Connections helped ease the decision. Former Rangers teammates Jacob Trouba, Frank Vatrano, and Ryan Strome now wear Ducks colors. Strome even joked that they pushed Kreider to “hurry up and sign the papers.”

Another draw was Anaheim’s rising core and the recent hiring of coach Joel Quenneville. Kreider praised young center Leo Carlsson as a “unicorn” and labeled Mason McTavish a “bull.” New teammates — including Radko Gudas, Troy Terry, and Cutter Gauthier — welcomed him warmly, and Strome has remained an anchor throughout the transition.

Injuries, legacy, and looking ahead

Kreider’s departure also came after a challenging 2024–25 season. Injuries hampered his play, dropping his goal tally to 22 — his lowest in a full season since 2017–18. Back spasms, illness-induced vertigo, and a fractured left hand all disrupted his year. “One little push in the game and it was just back to square one,” he recalled.

Reflecting on past injuries during his Rangers tenure, including a scaphoid break, tendon tear, and playoff wrist damage, Kreider emphasized he often played through pain. “I think he’s got a ton of game left,” said Strome, who believes the change of scenery could be exactly what Kreider needs to reignite his game.