The Seattle Kraken made a significant move in securing the future of their franchise by signing forward Matty Beniers to a seven-year contract extension worth just under $50 million. This deal demonstrates the team’s commitment to Beniers, who has become a cornerstone piece of their lineup since being drafted as the Kraken’s first-ever pick in 2021. Beniers, at the young age of 21, has already shown great promise on the ice, making a name for himself as a talented center with a bright future ahead.
Beniers’ journey with the Kraken began when he made his NHL debut late in the team’s inaugural season after completing a successful two-year stint at the University of Michigan. In his first 10 NHL games, Beniers showcased his skills with three goals and nine points, giving fans a glimpse of his potential. He continued to impress in the following season, recording 24 goals and 57 points in 80 games, which earned him the prestigious Calder Trophy as the league’s top rookie. Beniers’ impressive performance on the ice has solidified his place as a key player for the Kraken, making him a valuable asset to the team’s future success.
The seven-year contract extension will see Beniers earn an average annual value of $7.14 million, reflecting his importance to the Kraken’s lineup. In his 167 games with Seattle so far, Beniers has amassed 42 goals and 103 points, showcasing his scoring ability and playmaking skills. General manager Ron Francis expressed his excitement about locking in Beniers with a new contract, highlighting the young player’s contributions both on and off the ice. Francis emphasized Beniers’ commitment to the team and the community, making him an integral part of the Kraken family.
As Beniers looks ahead to the upcoming seasons, the Kraken are banking on his potential to evolve into a two-way player, combining his defensive prowess with his offensive capabilities. Despite facing some challenges in his sophomore NHL season, Beniers has shown resilience and determination to improve his game and adapt to the demands of professional hockey. His ability to play a shutdown role down the middle, along with his playmaking skills on the rush, make him a valuable asset for the Kraken moving forward.
One of the factors influencing the Kraken’s decision to sign Beniers to a long-term contract is the NHL’s increasing salary cap, which provides teams with more flexibility in managing their finances. With the salary cap set to rise by $4.5 million to $88 million for the upcoming season, the Kraken saw an opportunity to secure Beniers’ future while also planning for long-term success. By investing in young talents like Beniers, the Kraken are positioning themselves for sustainable growth and competitiveness in the league.
The extension of Beniers’ contract is not the only move that Francis has made to strengthen the Kraken’s lineup this offseason. Following a disappointing season that saw the team miss the playoffs for the second time in three years, Francis made the decision to make a coaching change by bringing in Dan Bylsma to replace Dave Hakstol. Bylsma’s experience and coaching style are expected to bring a fresh perspective to the team and help them overcome the challenges they faced in the previous season.
Despite finishing fifth in the Pacific Division with a record of 34-35-13, the Kraken struggled with consistency on offense, which impacted their performance on the power play and in scoring goals. Bylsma’s arrival, coupled with the development of young stars like Beniers, is aimed at addressing these issues and guiding the team back to the playoffs. With a renewed focus on improving their offensive capabilities and overall performance, the Kraken are determined to make a strong comeback in the upcoming season.
Beniers’ Impact on the Team
Beniers’ impact on the Kraken extends beyond his on-ice performance, as he has also made significant contributions to the team’s community and fan base. His dedication to representing the Kraken with pride and professionalism has earned him the respect and admiration of his teammates and fans alike. Beniers’ work ethic and commitment to excellence serve as a source of inspiration for the entire organization, setting a high standard for success both on and off the ice.
As a young player with immense potential, Beniers has shown remarkable growth and maturity in his short time with the Kraken. His ability to adapt to the demands of professional hockey and excel in a competitive environment speaks volumes about his character and determination. Beniers’ willingness to learn and grow as a player bodes well for his future with the team, as he continues to develop his skills and make a lasting impact on the franchise.
Looking Ahead
With Beniers locked in for the next seven years, the Kraken are poised for a bright future with a talented core of players led by the young center. As the team prepares for the upcoming season, there is a sense of optimism and excitement surrounding the potential of Beniers and his teammates. With a new coach in Bylsma and a renewed focus on improving their performance, the Kraken are determined to make a statement in the league and establish themselves as a competitive force to be reckoned with.
The signing of Beniers to a long-term contract extension is a significant step forward for the Kraken as they continue to build a competitive roster and strive for success in the NHL. With a talented young player like Beniers leading the way, the future looks promising for the Kraken as they embark on a new chapter in their journey as a franchise. The team’s commitment to investing in young talents like Beniers reflects their dedication to building a sustainable and successful organization for years to come.