Expansion Draft: 2 Columbus Blue Jackets the Seattle Kraken Could Select

The Seattle Kraken have July 17 marked on their calendars.as the deadline looms for every team in the NHL to submit their protected list for the expansion draft. From there the fun begins and the Kraken will announce their roster on July 21. While some teams have some talent exposed, it's slim pickings in Columbus.

For educational purposes:

• Teams must submit their protected lists to the league by July 17
• Each team must submit a protected list of seven forwards, three defensemen, and one goalie OR eight skaters and one goalie
• Any player with a no-movement clause must be protected unless the player waives it
• Each team must expose two forwards, one defenseman, and one goalie who are under contract and played at least 40 games this past season or 70 combined games over the last two seasons
• Any player with a career-ending injury is exempt from selection
• All first- and second-year players, as well as unsigned draft picks, are exempt from selection

Blue Jackets Players to Watch:

Dean Kukan: A depth defenseman at best, Kukan is signed for $1.65 million and last season ended the year with five points in 35 games. The stay at home defender would be a bottom-pair option for the Kraken, and offer Seattle someone who can kill penalties and make the first pass out of the zone. Sometimes it's off the glass. 

Eric Robinson: The 6'2 winger is signed for next season just under a million and is coming off a decent season. He recorded 18 points in 56 games and was selected to represent Team USA at the World Championships. Robinson is the best option available by a country mile and is likely headed west come July 21. 

Photo credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports