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.

That question could be asked of both the Anaheim Ducks and the New York Rangers after the first major trade this offseason. On Thursday, the Rangers sent Chris Kreider and a 2025 fourth-round pick (Anaheim's own,

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