Kreider makes the Ducks a better team and, if his health issues are behind him, he should be able to provide value at or close to his $6.5 million cap hit through 2027. For the cost of a depth prospect and a pick swap, it's a sensible gamble.

Anaheim Ducks forward Chris Kreider has spoken for the first time following a trade from the New York Rangers.

"It's an exciting time to be a Duck," said new Ducks forward Chris Kreider, just hours after he was acquired by Anaheim with a 2025 fourth-round pick for center Carey Terrance and a 2025 third-round pick.