We are rapidly approaching the beginning of the Draft, Free Agency and the real beginning of the offseason (though some teams have gotten a head start already).
Most of the main core group of the Kraken should be expected back for next season. The Kraken had an unbelievable run but there are still some key areas where this roster can improve. For starters, the high shooting percentages as a whole will likely be coming down. That being said the roster as a whole should still be contending for a playoff spot and looking to push further.
Here are some pending UFA's that the Kraken should at the very least be interested in.
JOHN KLINGBERG
Let's start off with a bit of a controversial pick. The Kraken were heavily rumoured to be in on Klingberg prior to him signing a one year 7 million dollar deal with the Ducks. Klingberg was one of the most prolific puck movers and offense defensemen in the league prior to going to the Ducks but fell off a cliff this past season.
The Kraken want to be able to move the puck out of their zone better and have some guys on the blueline with more offensive instincts. Klingberg is coming off of a bad season and could be had for cheap. Ultimately I don't think this is the best option for the team as Schultz fits the role as the third pairing offensive option fairly well but if the price is right it could be a high risk high reward signing.
MATT DUMBA
You want to talk high risk, high reward options, what about Matt Dumba? Dumba is a player who has failed to meet his original expectations. He may not bring the offense as much as is expected but in terms of his shot blocking and physicality he has shown to be a highly useful player and a key part of the Wild for years.
Dumba has had some injury issues and has been in trade talks basically every year for the past four seasons. All of that can weigh on a player. A new lease on life in Seattle could be just what the doctor ordered and at only 28 years old a longer term contract may not age as poorly as a 32 year old for example.
RYAN GRAVES
Overall I was looking at right shot options because that is the position where the Kraken are the weakest but players like Oleksiak can play either side. With that idea in mind Ryan Graves could be a perfect addition for this roster. While his overall production is not remarkable, Graves has done an excellent job at ensuring his team is always on the right side of the puck when he is on the ice.
Both the Avalanche and Devils saw themselves outscoring the opposition when Graves was on the ice. Defense metrics favor Graves as well as his xGF% and actual goals against paint him as a strong two way player. At 28 years old Graves is just entering the prime of his career. Of any of the defensemen I've listed so far, Graves would be my top choice.
TYLER BERTUZZI
This one is a long shot but worth mentioning. The Kraken are a highly gifted offensive team but if there is one thing the team may lack up front it is a bit of that "pest" element of the game. The Kraken as a whole can keep up with any team offensively and in terms of footspeed but while they have some heavier options on the blueline, they have less of that up front.
Enter Bertuzzi, a player who isn't afraid to play a more physical game but also has the offensive acumen to produce as well. He showed in a short stint with Boston and with the Red Wings that this is a player who can drive offense and produce at a 60 point pace. Seattle is loaded on it's top three lines but if there is a way to add a guy like Bertuzzi I would certainly not be opposed.
---
Over the coming weeks we will look at some more players but what say you Kraken fans? Who are your top Free Agent targets?
Seattle Kraken Blogger • 
Join the Discussion:
»