NHL Rumors: 2 Seattle Kraken Trade Candidates

The Seattle Kraken have not enjoyed the success they expected in their inaugural season, and now turn their attention to cashing in on some assets before the trade deadline. General manager Ron Francis has been busy these last few weeks fielding trade calls on several of his players and the executive recently admitted anything is on the table at this point. Let's take a look at two Kraken players who are very likely to be moved before the March 21 deadline:

Mark Giordano

The latest on 'Gio' being moved by the Kraken has the Calgary Flames, New York Rangers, Florida Panthers and Toronto Maple Leafs considering the veteran blueliner. Seattle's first captain has been everything as advertised for the franchise this season and has certainly given the team a face for this season. In 54 games he's Giordano has recorded 23 points and is averaging 21:26 of ice-time each night, which is impressive for a 38-year-old defenseman who isn't known for his skating abilities. He's capable of playing in all situations and could easily provide any playoff bound team a solid addition for their top-four. At this point it appears the Maple Leafs and Panthers are leading the race. Sportsnet's Luke Fox had this to say about a deal to Toronto:

But in Toronto he wouldn’t need to run a power play or be counted on to fuel offence (six goals, 23 points). That would just be a bonus to smart, D-zone play and help killing penalties. There’s also a romance to bringing in a local kid, the only undrafted Norris winner, and a respected character desperate to win a Stanley Cup while he can still have an impact.

Fox went on to mention Giordano's relationship with TJ Brodie and friendship with Morgan Rielly could go a long way as several of the Leafs brass have pumped the tires of the veteran defenseman this season. Giordano holds no-trade protection as he submits a list of 19 teams he's open to and the Maple Leafs are likely on the approved side of things.

Calle Jarnkrok

The Nashville Predators are one team to watch as their trying to bring back Jarnkrok to their mix. He spent over eight seasons in Smashville and in his first season with the Kraken has once again found his game. This season started slow for the 30-year-old but lately he's been much better, tallying 26 points in 48 games so far in 2021-22. Jarnkrok is a pending free agent making $2 million against the cap and is on the radar of multiple playoff-bound teams as he can play up and down the lineup and brings a tool box of intangibles to the ice. Look for a mid-round pick and prospect heading back to Seattle in any deal.