NHL Rumors: 3 Free-Agent Forward Targets for Seattle Kraken

The Seattle Kraken had an awful opening act as season one in the NHL did not go as planned. General manager Ron Francis has over $22 million in cap space to spend this offseason and it's been reported the Kraken will be active as anyone to improve this summer. Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet had this to say recently in his 32 Thoughts Blog:

Several negotiations (not just Pittsburgh) will be affected by Seattle. Teams (and especially agents) are eager to learn of the Kraken’s plans to add offensive talent.

3 Free-Agent Forwards the Kraken May Target

Bryan Rust, Pittsburgh Penguins: The Penguins are a mess at the moment as speculation is brewing about a riff between management and the players. While Kris Letang and Evgeni Malkin were apparently low balled with contract extension offers in season, forward Bryan Rust sits waiting for the phone to ring. The Detroit Red Wings are the favorite, but if Rust listens to all offers, the Kraken may offer the most. Rust is a goal scorer who works hard and can play in the Kraken's top six. Last season he recorded 24 goals in 60 games and potted 22 & 27 the two years prior in only 111 total games.

Ryan Strome, New York Rangers: The Rangers are going to do whatever they can to keep Ryan Strome around but they may be outbid by the Kraken. While he's not a legit #1 center, he's a nice #2 who plays an offensive style game and continues to develop his 200-foot game. This season Strome finished with 54 points in 74 game and continues to impress during the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

Vincent Trocheck, Carolina Hurricanes: Likely one of their main targets, the 28-year-old will be circled in Seattle and expect to see a huge offer coming this offseason if Trocheck does indeed reach free agency on July 13. Francis knows this player very well from their days in Carolina and he's the type of center the team needs as he plays hard on both sides of the puck. While it's no guarantee it happens, it's very likely if Trocheck leaves the 'Canes it's because the Kraken's deep pockets made it hard not to.

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