Canadiens Sign Veteran Forward Chris Kreider to One-Year Contract for 2026-27 Season
GATINEAU — Montreal Canadiens general manager Kent Hughes announced Saturday that the club has agreed to terms with forward Chris Kreider on a one-year contract covering the 2026-27 NHL season.
Kreider Brings Proven Scoring Pedigree to Montreal
The 35-year-old winger arrives after a productive 2025-26 campaign with the Anaheim Ducks, where he appeared in 75 games and recorded 50 points (22 goals, 28 assists) along with 34 penalty minutes. Kreider finished second on the Ducks with eight power-play goals and reached the 20-goal plateau for the eighth consecutive season — a testament to his consistency and finishing ability.
On November 30, 2025, Kreider notched the 600th point of his NHL career in a game against the Chicago Blackhawks, joining an exclusive tier of active players to reach the milestone.
Career Highlights and League Rankings
Since debuting in 2012-13, Kreider has compiled 632 points (348 goals, 284 assists) in 958 regular-season games split between the New York Rangers and Anaheim Ducks. Among all NHL skaters since his rookie year, he ranks:
- 15th in goals (348)
- 10th in power-play goals (124)
A native of Boxford, Massachusetts, Kreider posted career highs of 52 goals (including a league-leading 26 on the power play) and 77 points during the 2021-22 season with the Rangers.
Draft History and Organizational Fit
Originally selected by the New York Rangers in the first round (19th overall) of the 2009 NHL Draft, Kreider spent the first decade-plus of his career with the organization before moving to Anaheim. His addition gives Montreal a veteran net-front presence, power-play specialist, and leadership voice as the Canadiens continue reshaping their forward corps.
The one-year term provides flexibility for both sides while addressing an immediate need for goal-scoring experience on the wing.
