Ducks Expected to Waive Kreider to Free Cap Space for Extensions
Chris Kreider cleared unconditional waivers and became an unrestricted free agent after agreeing with the Anaheim Ducks to terminate the final year of his contract. The move removes his $6.5 million salary-cap hit and gives Anaheim more than $15 million in projected flexibility as it works to sign restricted free agent Cutter Gauthier after committing significant money to Leo Carlsson and other players. Kreider, who turns 36 this season, recorded 22 goals and 50 points in 75 games with Anaheim last season, adding seven points in 12 playoff games. After 13 seasons with the New York Rangers and one season with the Ducks, he reportedly prefers to return to the Eastern Conference and has drawn interest from several teams, including the Boston Bruins, Buffalo Sabres, Rangers and New York Islanders.