Anaheim Ducks place Kreider on waivers for termination

The Anaheim Ducks are reportedly expected to place veteran forward Chris Kreider on waivers for the purpose of contract termination, a move that has received the player's approval. The decision stems from the team's salary cap constraints, particularly following the matching of Leo Carlsson's offer sheet and the anticipated contract extension for restricted free agent Cutter Gauthier. Kreider, 35, has one season remaining on his contract with a $6.5 million cap hit. If Kreider clears waivers, he would become an unrestricted free agent. Reports indicate that Kreider, who is from Massachusetts, desires to return to the East Coast, closer to his family and the area where he spent the first 13 years of his NHL career with the New York Rangers. Sources suggest that Kreider may refuse to report if claimed by a team he does not wish to play for, a factor that may have influenced the Ducks' decision to pursue contract termination rather than a trade. Trade alternatives were reportedly explored but were not favored by the Ducks' general manager, Pat Verbeek, as they would have required Anaheim to include additional assets as sweeteners.