The Seattle Kraken’s first NHL offseason has been an exciting one for hockey fans in the Pacific Northwest. After being awarded an NHL franchise in December of 2018, the team has been busy building a roster and making moves to improve their chances of success in the 2021-22 season. In this article, we’ll take a look at the team’s offseason moves and analyze whether or not the Seattle Kraken have improved or regressed from their inaugural season.
First, let’s start with the draft. The Kraken made some big moves in the first round, selecting forwards Seth Jarvis and Simon Kubicek with their first two picks. Both players have the potential to be impact players in the NHL, and they should help the team build a strong core of young talent. Additionally, the team was able to add depth to their roster through the draft, selecting several players who could develop into solid contributors in the future.
Next, let’s look at the team’s free agent signings. The Kraken made some big splashes in free agency, signing forwards Anthony Cirelli and Jimmy Vesey to multi-year deals. Both players are proven NHL contributors and should help the team improve their offense. Additionally, the team was able to add some depth to their defense by signing veteran defenseman Luke Schenn.
Finally, let’s look at the team’s trades. The Kraken made some big moves in this department, trading for forwards Jarred Tinordi and Blake Coleman. Both players should help the team improve their defensive play and add some physicality to their lineup. Additionally, the team was able to add some scoring punch by trading for forward Kyle Palmieri.
Overall, it’s safe to say that the Seattle Kraken have improved from their inaugural season. They’ve added some top-end talent through the draft, made some solid free agent signings, and made some smart trades to bolster their roster. With a strong core of young talent and a few key veterans, the Kraken should be a competitive team in the 2021-22 season.