Chris Kreider talks Rangers’ exit and what’s next with Ducks

Chris Kreider seemed content with the way his 13-year Rangers tenure came to an end while speaking about it Thursday when he was introduced as an Anaheim Duck on a Zoom call with reporters hours after the official trade call went through.

Citing constant communication with management this offseason, particularly from president and general manager Chris Drury, as well as his understanding of the possibility dating back to exit meetings in April, the veteran forward said it was all done in a “really respectful fashion” by the Blueshirts.

“I’m very appreciative of that,” he said.

At 34, Kreider said he feels his best hockey is ahead of him.

New Ducks head coach Joel Quenneville was a “massive draw” for Kreider, who went down the Ducks roster and listed several team traits he’s excited about. He will also be reunited with multiple former Rangers in ex-captain Jacob Trouba, Ryan Strome and Frank Vatrano.

Kreider added that he’s looking forward to having an extended offseason to get fully healthy after dealing with various injuries this past season. Admitting he had injuries he “probably shouldn’t have tried to play through at times,” Kreider said he plans to make sure he shows up to training camp in the best shape possible and ensure his previous issues don’t pop up again.

As for his emotions about saying goodbye to New York, the Massachusetts native pointed to the fact that he grew up, matured and started his family here.

“I think I’ve gone through the spectrum: Anger, sadness, grief,” he said. “Whatever you want to call it. But I keep on arriving at gratitude for how I was treated, the opportunities I was given, for the connection I was able to make, the relationships, the friendships, the experiences I was able to have. Playing in front of that fan base, at that arena, playing in some of the games I was able to play in. Stuff that is so memorable and means so much to me and stuff that I’ll take with me for the rest of my life.”