The Seattle Kraken are ready for the upcoming expansion draft. The new addition to the NHL family is looking to capitalize on every opportunity presented. The Kraken will need to do this so they can formulate the perfect team.
What to Know About the Seattle Expansion Draft
The big day that the Kraken are looking forward to is set for July 21. Here, the Kraken will be able to select one player from each team that will participate in this year’s expansion draft. The Vegas Golden Knights, however, are an exception. The Kraken won’t be allowed to select any of their players.
In addition, the Kraken will have many good players to choose from. There is certainly one player who may be looked at closely. That is Tony DeAngelo.
There is a possibility that DeAngelo could be chosen by the Kraken. However, if they do not decide to select him, the New York Rangers can jump into action. The Rangers will be able to buy DeAngelo’s contract out.
The Kraken will have to follow the same rules the Vegas Golden Knights were required to follow in their expansion draft in 2017.
As stated previously, the Kraken can select one player from each team in the NHL except the Golden Knights. Each team will be able to protect seven forwards, three defenseman and one goalie. On the other hand, they can protect eight skaters, which include forwards and defensemen.
The Players the Kraken May Select
The Kraken have a broad range of options when it comes to selecting players, so they will need to choose wisely.
One player that could be on the Kraken’s radar is Arizona Coyote’s Tyler Pitlick, who will likely be an available option for the Kraken. He previously played for the Edmonton Oilers, Philadelphia Flyers and the Dallas Stars.
Most notably, Pitlick has a total of 73 NHL career points thus far. He has made plenty of opportunities to capitilize on goal scoring and assists where he can, making him a valuable asset to the Kraken.
Additionally, he would be a great choice should the Kraken select him. He brings good quality hockey performance and style to the game. This is an ideal attribute the Kraken will probably be looking at.
When it comes to looking for a netminder, Anton Khudobin would make a great addition to the Kraken’s roster. At 34-years old, Khudobin’s style of play works quite sufficient for the Dallas Stars, His work has proven to pay off, literally, as the Stars and Khudobin signed a three-year contract worth $10 million.
Another goalie the Kraken should look at would be St. Louis Blue’s Jake Allen. He’s a reliable, skilled 30-year old who brings years of experience to the ice. He would certainly be a perfect choice should the Kraken take him.
Last but not least, Nick Leddy, New York Islander’s defenseman. This guy has really proven himself with the Islanders and has racked up a lot of points over the past five years with the team. His offensive abilities and goal-scoring skill makes him a nice option for the Kraken.
In conclusion, it is certain that the Kraken will be more than ready for the 2021 NHL Expansion Draft. This will be their opportunity to select the best players possible and create a Stanley Cup team. We will see how things turn out soon for the new hockey team.
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