Chris Kreider's Inevitable Trip to Anaheim: What’s the Deal?
As the New York Rangers look to retool after last season's collapse, no player seems to be safe this summer. This Rangers team has spent the last few seasons relying too much on Igor Shesterkin and Jonathan Quick, meaning this team needs some serious changes in order to help them out in front. A significant reset is certainly needed, so it’s difficult to predict which veterans will remain in New York. Over the last decade, a certain player has made New York his home, and fans certainly appreciate all he’s done for this team. After 13 seasons with the Blueshirts, it looks as if their longest-tenured player's time in New York has come to an end.
Chris Kreider, the man who has stayed loyal to New York, looks to be on his way to the Anaheim Ducks. The New York Rangers have been in advanced discussions with Anaheim on a trade, with both parties being heavily interested in this trade. So they agree on the trade, but what exactly is the deal to be? Recently, discussions have been made about New York obtaining an Anaheim prospect, and all eyes immediately turned to Carey Terrance. The 2023 second-round pick not only would swap with Kreider, but Anaheim would also take his full contract, as he still has two years remaining on his six-and-a-half million per year. Though a deal has not been made as of yet, both parties being very interested suggests it’s only a matter of time until it’s a done deal. With the trade feeling inevitable, what does this prospect bring to New York
Selected by Anaheim in the second round of the 2023 draft, Carey Terrance plays center and is a left-shooter. His previous four seasons were spent in the OHL, playing for the Erie Otters. Over his last two seasons, his offense has been quite slow, with 39 points in 45 games last season. He’s proven in the past to be a key contributor in most situations, with five shorthanded goals in 2023-24. Though it may not look like much in return for Kreider, young talent like this is never a bad thing, especially when taking a step backward in the coming seasons. With his experience in the OHL, he also played a part in the World Juniors, scoring twice and helping Team USA win another gold medal. Hopefully, their new coach, Mike Sullivan, gives the youngster some ice time in New York; he’s certain to surprise a few fans as he develops.
After so much time in New York, Kreider has proven time and time again that he will always be remembered. He’s proven himself as a gifted goal scorer, especially in the postseason, having jumped straight into it from college. Despite his rather disappointing numbers last season, fans shouldn't forget what the 34-year-old has done for this team. Though Anaheim appears to be on Kreider’s no-trade list, sources say he and Drury have been in discussion for a while now, perhaps he’s willing to waive his no-trade clause. If all goes as discussed, Kreider is soon to join his former teammates Ryan Strome, Frank Vatrano, and Jacob Trouba over in Anaheim, it’d make sense if he were quite interested. As both teams seem to agree on the deal, all that comes down to now is if Chris Kreider is ready to move on and say goodbye to this place he calls home.
