Chris Kreider heading to waivers in shocking Ducks decision

The Anaheim Ducks entered the offseason riding high after a resurgent campaign, but the financial realities of building a young contender have caught up fast. Now, one of the team's most productive veterans is on his way out, and the method is raising eyebrows around the league.

According to Elliotte Friedman, the Ducks are expected to place Chris Kreider on waivers for the purposes of contract termination on Wednesday. The move is reportedly happening with Kreider's full cooperation.

According to Gino Reda, he has indicated he wants to return east, closer to family, but will not report if he's claimed somewhere he does not want to play.

Once Kreider clears waivers, he would become an unrestricted free agent. Sources indicate the 35-year-old winger has expressed a desire to return to the East Coast, closer to family, after spending the first 13 seasons of his career in that part of the country. He has reportedly signaled that he would not report to a team that claims him if the destination does not align with his preferences.

Interest in Kreider is said to exist around the league. He still has one year remaining on his current deal, carrying a $6.5 million cap hit, though only $4 million in actual salary remains after a signing bonus was paid on July 1.

The driving force behind the decision is Anaheim's rapidly shifting salary cap landscape. The Ducks were forced into a tighter financial position after Leo Carlsson's matched $18 million offer sheet and with a looming contract extension for 41-goal scorer Cutter Gauthier on the horizon. GM Pat Verbeek reportedly explored the trade market but was unsatisfied with the options available, particularly the additional assets, or "sweeteners," he would have needed to attach in order to move Kreider's contract.

That frustration with the trade landscape pushed the Ducks toward contract termination, a mechanism that has grown increasingly popular around the NHL over the past season. Still, it remains unusual to see a player of Kreider's caliber take this path. He posted roughly 50 points last season, making him one of the most productive players to ever go through the termination process.

All eyes turn to the next 48 hours as the waiver period plays out. If everything proceeds as expected, Kreider will hit the open market with plenty of suitors, and the Ducks will have the breathing room they desperately need to lock up their young core.