It’s a dream come true for Kailer Yamamoto. The Spokane native and NHL forward has signed a three-year contract with the Seattle Kraken, the NHL’s newest expansion team. Yamamoto, who was drafted by the Edmonton Oilers in 2017, is thrilled to be playing for a team so close to home.
“I’m really excited to be joining the Kraken,” Yamamoto said in a statement. “It’s a great opportunity to play in front of my family and friends and to represent the Pacific Northwest.”
Yamamoto, who is just 23 years old, has already had a successful NHL career. He has played in over 200 NHL games and has scored over 50 points in each of the last two seasons. He also represented Team USA at the World Championships in 2020.
The Kraken are thrilled to have Yamamoto on their roster. General Manager Ron Francis said, “Kailer is a dynamic player who brings a lot of energy and skill to the ice. He’s a great fit for our team and we’re looking forward to having him in Seattle.”
Yamamoto’s signing is a big win for the Kraken, who are looking to build a competitive team for their inaugural season. He joins a roster that includes former NHL All-Stars like Henrik Lundqvist and Evgeni Malkin.
Yamamoto’s signing is also a win for hockey fans in the Pacific Northwest. The Kraken will be the first professional hockey team in the region since the Seattle Totems folded in 1975. With Yamamoto on board, fans can look forward to seeing some exciting hockey in Seattle this season.
Kailer Yamamoto has fulfilled his dream of playing for an NHL team near his hometown. He joins a talented roster of players on the Seattle Kraken and will be an exciting addition to the team. Hockey fans in the Pacific Northwest can look forward to seeing Yamamoto and the Kraken take the ice this season.
