Chris Kreider signed a one-year contract with the Montreal Canadiens shortly after the Anaheim Ducks terminated his deal. Financial terms were undisclosed by the team, but ESPN reported a $2.15 million average annual value, with potential compensation of up to $5 million next season if conditions are met. Anaheim said the move creates salary-cap flexibility while it seeks to re-sign restricted free agent forward Cutter Gauthier, who led the Ducks with 41 goals and 69 points last season. Kreider recorded 50 points in 75 games and seven points in 12 playoff games during his only season with Anaheim in 2025-26.