The Seattle Kraken made headlines this week as they completed a series of trades leading up to the NHL trade deadline. With the regular season heading toward its final weeks and the Kraken sitting outside the playoff picture, these trades reflect the team’s strategy for building a brighter future. Fans were particularly interested in the departure of fan favorite Brandon Tanev, whose journey has seen him return to his original team, the Winnipeg Jets. Let’s take a closer look at what went down!
The Seattle Kraken Wrapped Up the NHL’s Trade Deadline Week
As the clock ticked down to the NHL trade deadline, the Kraken were not sitting idle. Over just three days, they completed an impressive series of trades, including sending away star players and securing valuable draft picks that are sure to benefit the team in the long run. The last few days of the deadline acted like a whirlwind of activity in Seattle’s offices, with General Manager Ron Francis at the helm orchestrating these significant moves.
Seattle Kraken Trade Fan Favorite Brandon Tanev
One of the biggest moves during this busy trading period was the departure of Brandon Tanev. The energetic winger was traded to the Winnipeg Jets, marking a bittersweet moment for many Kraken fans who enjoyed cheering for Tanev. Known affectionately as “Turbo,” he was beloved for his hustle and determination on the ice. Tanev’s contract is set to expire this offseason, so both the Kraken and Tanev agreed it was time for a new chapter.
Seattle Kraken Trade Deadline Highlights
- The Kraken made three trades in total during the trade deadline week.
- In addition to Trading Tanev, forward Daniel Sprong was dealt to the New Jersey Devils for a seventh-round draft pick in 2026.
- Seattle also saw the departure of Yanni Gourde and Oliver Bjorkstrand, who were sent to Tampa Bay.
- As a result of these trades, the Kraken secured several future draft picks and a new player, Michael Eyssimont, to help strengthen their roster.
What the Trades Mean for the Kraken
With a current record of 26 wins, 33 losses, and 4 overtime losses, the Kraken are focused on the future rather than trying to claw their way into the playoffs this season. General Manager Ron Francis believes accumulating draft picks is a smart move to rebuild and enhance the team’s young roster. By trading away established players like Tanev, Gourde, and Bjorkstrand, the Kraken are prioritizing long-term success over short-term gains.
Looking Ahead
The Kraken are not just making changes for the sake of it; they are strategizing for a better tomorrow. With five first-round picks and five second-round picks over the next three drafts, Seattle’s front office has a lot of opportunities to shape the team’s future. Fans can feel optimistic knowing that the organization is making thoughtful moves to build a well-rounded team that can compete at a high level.
Next Game: Seattle Faces Off Against Philadelphia
After a busy trade period, the Seattle Kraken will be back in action on Saturday morning against the Philadelphia Flyers. This game will be broadcast nationally on ABC at 9:30 a.m. PST, offering fans a chance to see some of the new faces on the ice. While the team navigates these changes, it’s crucial for fans to continue showing their support as their beloved Kraken forge ahead with a fresh vision for the future.
| Player Involved | Trade Destination | Draft Picks Acquired | Notable Stats |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brandon Tanev | Winnipeg Jets | 2027 Second-Round Pick | 60 Games, 17 Points (9 Goals, 8 Assists) |
| Daniel Sprong | New Jersey Devils | 2026 Seventh-Round Pick | 10 Games with Kraken |
| Yanni Gourde | Tampa Bay Lightning | First-Round Picks | Significant Playoff Experience |
| Oliver Bjorkstrand | Tampa Bay Lightning | Second-Round Pick | Strong Offensive Skills |
