Seattle Kraken’s Summer Makeover: Exciting Upgrades and Huge Trade Wins!

The Seattle Kraken made some big moves recently by trading veteran forwards Oliver Bjorkstrand and Yanni Gourde. General manager Ron Francis noted that these trades have given the team more draft picks and salary cap space. This opens up new opportunities to improve the team over the summer.

In the deals, Francis secured two first-round draft picks, protected for the top 10, in 2026 and 2027, plus a second-round pick in July. The Kraken also acquired forward Mikey Eyssimont, who will join the team for their next game against Nashville. These moves also free up about $10.6 million in cap space for next season.

Francis expressed excitement about having multiple draft picks, saying, “We have five first-round picks and four second-round picks in the next three drafts.” He emphasized that the plan isn’t just to draft players but to explore trading or packaging those picks to strengthen the team’s roster.

Despite the excitement, Francis admitted he’s disappointed with the team’s current performance, feeling they should be in playoff contention. He remarked, “We’re not satisfied with where we are, and we need to make this better.” With the deadline approaching, the team is evaluating all options, including potential trades and free-agent signings.

As for player development, forward Jacob Melanson, selected in the 2021 draft, is joining the Kraken and could make his NHL debut soon. Other promising players include rookie Jani Nyman, who is excelling in the AHL with 26 goals this season. Eduard Sale and Jagger Firkus are also making strides, and Ryan Winterton has already tasted NHL action.

Additionally, the Kraken are seeing growth from winger Kaapo Kakko, who joined from the New York Rangers. His performance since the trade has improved, and the team is considering extending his contract if the chance arises.

Francis acknowledged that parting ways with Bjorkstrand, who has a year left on his contract, and Gourde, who is a pending unrestricted free agent, was a strategic decision. The draft picks gained in return were too good to pass up. “It was better to make the deal than to try to sign Gourde,” he explained.

Both players played significant roles in the team’s early success. Bjorkstrand was key in their first playoff appearance, scoring during a crucial playoff win. Meanwhile, Gourde provided valuable experience during that run, leading the team in playoff points.

Francis also highlighted the team’s growth in the center position, now bolstered by young talents like Matty Beniers and Shane Wright. He noted, “We have one of the youngest center duos, and historically, those teams improve over time.”

Looking ahead, Francis is optimistic about the Kraken’s future, believing that strategic adjustments could see them back in playoff contention. With young players developing and improved draft capital, the team’s path seems promising.

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