Seattle Kraken build their foundation through NHL mock expansion draft

Pacific Division

Anaheim Ducks – Jacob Larsson

I could see the Ducks taking a chance on the Seattle Kraken avoiding Ryan Getzlaf, which would open up a forward spot for them. However, is that a risk the Ducks are going to be willing to take? If Adam Henrique is available, that might intrigue the Kraken.

But Jacob Larsson appears to be the smart pick here. If he takes a huge step next season, Josh Manson or Hampus Lindholm could be exposed instead. Either would be a strong choice.

Arizona Coyotes – Adin Hill

If the Coyotes re-sign Annti Raanta, who will be a UFA after the 2020-21 season, Adin Hill is the easy pick here. He’s a talented young goalie who has had NHL success, albeit in a small sample size. Raanta would be a nice pick if he’s made available.

Calgary Flames – Sam Bennett

Juuso Valimaki could be a solid pick, but as of right now, it’s not known how well he’ll bounce back from a torn knee ligament that he suffered last year. Sam Bennett would be a solid choice, providing the Kraken with a talented, but inconsistent third-line forward.

Edmonton Oilers – Caleb Jones

I’d be willing to listen to offers for taking on James Neal’s contract, but in this mock draft, I’m not doing anything of the sort. Caleb Jones is a talented young defenseman who I’ve always been a fan of.

Los Angeles Kings – Austin Wagner

The pickings are quite slim here. They have several players I’d be willing to be compensated to take, such as Jonathan Quick and Dustin Brown, but Austin Wagner would be a nice fit in Seattle.

San Jose Sharks – Radim Simek

Cheap? Young? Controllable? Check. And he still has some untapped potential. Radim Simek is the perfect candidate to take.

Vancouver Canucks – Adam Gaudette

He’ll be an RFA after this season. Adam Gaudette is a top-nine forward who still has a little bit of untapped potential. I like his skill and speed.

Vegas Golden Knights – No One

The Golden Knights will be exempt from the expansion draft. But I’m sure they’ll play a large role in the expansion draft via trades.