As the NHL’s newest franchise, the Seattle Kraken, prepares to enter the league in the 2022-23 season, fans and experts alike are eager to see where they will rank among the other teams. With the 2021-22 season still underway, it’s too early to make any definitive predictions, but one expert has already weighed in on the matter.
Geoff Baker, a veteran hockey writer and analyst, recently released his 2022-23 NHL Power Rankings, which placed the Kraken at number 14. Baker’s rankings are based on a variety of factors, including team depth, goaltending, and coaching. He also takes into account the team’s recent performance and any potential changes that may be made prior to the start of the season.
Baker believes that the Kraken have a strong core of players, including forwards Jarret Stoll and Tyler Johnson, defensemen Ryan McDonagh and Matt Niskanen, and goaltender Thomas Greiss. He also believes that the team has a good mix of veterans and young players, which should help them compete right away.
The Kraken also have a number of promising prospects in their system, including forwards Kailer Yamamoto and Nolan Foote, defensemen Cal Foote and Jake Lee, and goaltender Liam Hughes. Baker believes that these players could make an immediate impact for the team in 2022-23.
Baker’s rankings also take into account the team’s coaching staff. The Kraken have hired former NHL coach Dave Tippett as their head coach, and he will be joined by experienced assistant coaches John Stevens and Trent Yawney. Baker believes that this trio will be able to get the most out of the team’s talent.
Overall, Baker believes that the Kraken have the potential to be a competitive team in 2022-23. While they may not be ready to challenge for a Stanley Cup just yet, they should be able to compete for a playoff spot. With a strong core of players, promising prospects, and an experienced coaching staff, the Kraken should be able to make some noise in their inaugural season.
