Are the Seattle Kraken Buyers or Sellers at the Trade Deadline?
The Seattle Kraken has an opportunity to be real players at the trade deadline on Friday. While still currently occupying the third spot in the Pacific Division, the Kraken, in point percentage, is ahead of the Edmonton Oilers and Calgary Flames.
The Western Conference playoff picture is tight, and Seattle could grab some key pieces via trade.
Do the Seattle Kraken add or subtract on Friday?
Seattle can make its first playoff appearance in its second season in the league. Last season was a learning experience, as the team got adjusted to being an NHL franchise. Although they did not make the playoffs, the Kraken did have some memorable moments.
This season, the Seattle Kraken has played extremely well and is in a playoff spot. This is why they should be buyers at the trade deadline.
The Kraken is solid in both goaltending and defense. No movements are necessary unless they are presented with a deal that they think is an upgrade to their defensive core.
At the forward position is where they probably make a move. Although the Seattle Kraken forwards are an aggressive, offensively creative group, they could use a finisher around the net.
Their offense could use an upgrade. Not necessarily an NHL scoring machine, instead a couple of solid additions in the top or bottom six should keep them right in the thick of things.
There are some players who could be had for a reasonable return that will not break the Seattle Kraken bank.
Jakub Vrana
Detroit Red Wings forward Jakub Vrana has been in a weird position lately and is likely to be on the move. With his lack of offensive production this season due to ups and downs, Vrana may not cost the Kraken the haul he may have received last season.
Seattle could use him in the top six as he does have 30-goal potential. An offensive, shoot-first forward, Vrana has been working on his defense to round out his game. He could also help the Seattle Kraken special teams, as he has one of the better shots in the league.
Brock Boeser
Vancouver Canucks forward Brock Boeser has been rumored all season to be on the move, and the Canucks have made some moves this season to prepare for a rebuild.
Boeser and his offensive production are not what they used to be, but he can still be offensively productive to a team who could use a bit more offense. Boeser could slot in well on the Kraken second line and also be effective on the power play.
Jakob Chychrun
Arizona Coyotes defenseman Jakob Chychrun has been rumored to be traded since last season and to every team in the league. As mentioned earlier, Seattle has a sound group of defensemen but if it can get in the Chychrun sweepstakes, and get him, that could be huge for the organization.
He would certainly be an upgrade to anyone’s defense and can play in all situations. He still has term and is young enough to help grow the franchise.
Who from the Kraken may be available for trade?
Forwards Jordan Eberle, Morgan Geekie, Alexander Wennberg, Jesper Froden, and Daniel Sprong. Defensemen Vince Dunn, Carson Soucy, William Borgen, and Cal Fleury. Goaltender Martin Jones could also be had.
The Seattle Kraken may be a busy bunch as they eye their first-ever playoff spot. The Kraken is in a good spot currently but could swing a few deals and make their way up the standings even further.
The Kraken is not far from the division lead either, so any moves made could be crucial to end-of-season success. Should be an interesting few days for the Seattle Kraken.