Chris Kreider was warmly welcomed at the 2025 Shoulder Check Showcase, where the sea of blue and white reminded him and everyone else of his deep connection with the New York Rangers. Though he now wears Anaheim Ducks orange, the bond between Kreider and Rangers fans remains strong.
On a night dedicated to mental health awareness, Kreider reflected on his recent trade, marking the end of his 13-year tenure with New York. The 34-year-old forward acknowledged the Rangers’ optimism for the future, despite a disappointing season that led to significant roster changes and a coaching overhaul.
Kreider Joins Ducks to Lead Young Core, Reunite with Former Rangers Teammates
Traded on June 12 for young forward Carey Terrance and a draft pick, Kreider has accepted his new role with the Anaheim Ducks. Joining a team that has consistently struggled offensively, Kreider is expected to play on the top line alongside Leo Carlsson and Troy Terry.
Last season, Kreider posted his lowest full-season point total since 2017-18, partly due to a hand injury, back spasms, and vertigo. Despite these setbacks, Anaheim is counting on his veteran presence and scoring ability to help lift a franchise that has missed the playoffs for seven consecutive years.
Kreider won’t be starting from scratch in Anaheim. He reunites with former Rangers teammates Frank Vatrano, Ryan Strome, and Jacob Trouba, all of whom are expected to bring leadership to a young Ducks core. He’ll also be coached by Joel Quenneville, a three-time Stanley Cup winner.
Quenneville praised Kreider’s physical style and power-play potential, emphasizing his value to a team looking for grit and guidance. Kreider joins other veterans like Mikael Granlund and Radko Gudas in mentoring Anaheim’s promising young roster.
A Storied Rangers Career Ends, But Kreider’s Legacy and Loyalty Remain Forever Intact
Kreider leaves behind a significant legacy in New York. He ranks third in goals, fifth in games played, and tenth in points in Rangers history. Over his 11-plus seasons, he became known for his playoff performances and leadership during deep postseason runs, including a trip to the 2014 Stanley Cup Final.
As the Rangers pivot toward a youth movement under new coach Mike Sullivan, the franchise has begun to focus on younger talents like Brett Berard, Brennan Othmann, and Gabe Perreault, signaling the end of an era.
Though Kreider has embraced his new opportunity, his bond with New York is unbreakable. He expressed deep gratitude for his time with the Rangers, citing the fan base as a core part of what made his experience special.
His return to Madison Square Garden with the Ducks on December 15 is expected to be an emotional one, with former teammate Vatrano predicting Kreider’s jersey will eventually hang in the rafters. For now, he steps into a mentorship role in Anaheim, eager to contribute both on and off the ice in this next phase of his storied career.
