Sat Jan 24 05:30:00 UTC 2026: # Kraken Considering Trading Shane Wright to Bolster Wing Depth

The Story:
The Seattle Kraken are reportedly open to trading Shane Wright, their 2022 fourth-overall draft pick, as they seek to acquire a top-tier winger to strengthen their forward group. While General Manager Jason Botterill isn’t actively shopping Wright, he is willing to listen to offers, leveraging the team’s perceived depth at the center position to address a need on the wing. The Kraken, currently holding a wild-card spot in the Western Conference, aim to improve their chances of making a deep playoff run.

Key Points:

  • The Seattle Kraken are willing to trade Shane Wright.
  • The Kraken are seeking a top-three or top-six winger.
  • GM Jason Botterill is listening to offers but is not in a rush to trade Wright.
  • The expected return for Wright is “incredibly high.”
  • Shane Wright, 22, has 7 goals and 17 points in 49 games this season with 13:43 average ice time.
  • Wright’s cap hit is $886,666 through next season.

Critical Analysis:
The Kraken’s willingness to trade Wright signals a shift in their team-building strategy. Drafting Wright 4th overall in 2022, he was expected to be a cornerstone of the franchise. However, his limited ice time and moderate production suggest he hasn’t developed as quickly as hoped. The team’s centre depth, whether real or perceived, provides an opportunity to address a more pressing need on the wing to maximize their chances of playoff success. This is a “win-now” move reflecting the team’s playoff aspirations.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Kraken are prioritizing immediate improvement over long-term development at the center position.
  • Shane Wright’s future with the Kraken is uncertain, despite his high draft pedigree.
  • The Kraken are active participants in the trade market ahead of the trade deadline.
  • The Kraken are clearly making a push to improve the team before the trade deadline.
  • The price for the player acquired using Wright as a trade piece will need to make a splash, considering the perceived value of a fourth-overall pick.

Impact Analysis:

The potential trade of Shane Wright could significantly impact the Kraken’s short-term and long-term trajectory. A successful acquisition of a top winger could solidify their playoff contention and potentially lead to a deeper run. However, trading Wright, a high draft pick with potential, carries the risk of the team missing out on his future development if he blossoms elsewhere. This trade, if executed, will be heavily scrutinized and its success will be judged by the performance of both Wright on his new team and the winger acquired by the Kraken over the next few seasons. The implications extend beyond the ice, potentially affecting fan morale and the team’s reputation in player development.

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