Seattle Kraken build their foundation through NHL mock expansion draft

Metropolitan Division

Carolina Hurricanes – Jake Bean

The Carolina Hurricanes have an embarrassment of riches. This means young stud defenseman Jake Bean, who has all the tools you want to see in a top pairing NHL defenseman, is going to be available. I’ll happily take him. Hopefully, he’ll be Seattle’s Shea Theodore.

Columbus Blue Jackets – Josh Anderson

Josh Anderson has had injury issues, but he’s a unicorn in today’s NHL. He’s a skilled forward who is big and can play physical. It’s really hard to find someone with his skillset. Anderson will likely be unprotected, meaning I’ll be happy to take him. Of course, that depends on his health.

New Jersey Devils – Janne Kuokkanen

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The New Jersey Devils don’t have too much to offer. They’ll be able to protect most of their best players. If P.K. Subban is available, he’d be a fascinating pick. But since he isn’t in this expansion draft, I’ll go with Janne Kuokkanen, a talented young forward the Devils got in the Sami Vatanen trade.

New York Islanders – Jordan Eberle

Ultimately, the New York Islanders will probably have to choose two of Josh Bailey, Kieffer Bellows, Casey Cizikas, and Jordan Eberle to protect. If Eberle isn’t protected, I’d take him.

New York Rangers – Lias Anderson

The New York Rangers will have some interesting players available. I’ll go with Lias Anderson, though.

Philadelphia Flyers – James van Riemsdyk

Shayne Gostisbehere intrigues me, but in fairness, I believe he won’t be on the Philadelphia Flyers in a year. James van Riemsdyk is an undeniably flawed player. But he scores goals and you can’t win games without scoring goals.

Pittsburgh Penguins – Matt Murray

The Kraken need a starting goalie and Matt Murray’s the best goalie who will likely be available. And hey, picking a Pittsburgh goalie worked out well for the Vegas Golden Knights.

Washington Capitals – T.J. Oshie

Seattle’s first captain! If the Capitals make him available, T.J. Oshie checks so many boxes. He’s a star, he’s from Washington, and his leadership and intangibles bring a lot to Seattle.