Key Highlights
- The Seattle Kraken are reportedly open to trading former first-round pick Shane Wright.
- Wright has played all 49 games this season for the Kraken, scoring 17 points and maintaining a minus-1 plus/minus rating.
- The trade possibility comes as the Kraken search for a top-six forward, with recent trades showing their willingness to make strategic moves.
- The NHL trade deadline is on March 6, but there’s also a three-week break from February 4-22 due to the Winter Olympics.
Seattle Kraken Exploring Trade Opportunities for Shane Wright
SEATTLE KRAKEN The Seattle Kraken are reportedly open to trading former first-round pick Shane Wright, according to NHL insider David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period. This development comes as the team continues to search for a top-six forward that could significantly bolster their roster.
Potential Trade Scenario
According to Pagnotta’s report on Wednesday, the Kraken are willing to move Wright in pursuit of an experienced and skilled forward who can contribute to their playoff push. The 22-year-old center has played all 49 games this season for Seattle, scoring 17 points with seven goals and 10 assists, while maintaining a minus-1 plus/minus rating.
Recent Trade History
The Kraken have already made one surprising trade this season. They shipped out forward Mason Marchment, their biggest offseason addition, in December to the Columbus Blue Jackets for a package that included a second-round pick and a conditional third-round pick. Before the trade of Marchment, the Kraken had lost 10 of 11 games. However, they caught fire after the deal, going 8-0-1 in their first nine games following it.
Wright’s Performance
Shane Wright, an Ontario native, is entering his fourth season with the Kraken and second full season in the NHL. While he has shown promise, his percentages have dropped this season. He has scored on just 9.3% of his 75 shots on goal, compared to a 20.9% clip last season. Additionally, Wright has won only 37.5% of his 344 faceoffs, down from 44.4% in the previous season.
Current Standings and Future Outlook
The Kraken are currently 25th out of 32 NHL teams with 2.78 goals per game. They are tied for fifth place among Pacific Division rivals, with 53 points in the standings. The trade deadline is on March 6, but there will be a three-week break from February 4-22 due to the Winter Olympics.
The Seattle Kraken face a challenging path to make it into the playoffs this season, as they are currently vying for one of the final wild card spots in the Western Conference. With their current roster needing improvement in certain areas, the trade of Shane Wright could be part of their strategic plan to strengthen their lineup and improve their chances of success.
