Seattle Kraken Sign Talented Goaltender To One-Year Deal
The Seattle Kraken have signed Ales Stezka, a 26-year-old goaltender, to a one-year, two-way contract worth $950,000.
Stezka was drafted by the Minnesota Wild in 2015, but he never played for the team.
The #SeaKraken have signed goaltender Ales Stezka to a one-year, entry-level contract. pic.twitter.com/tZiKrHSamc
— Seattle Kraken PR (@SeattleKrakenPR) May 2, 2023
During the 2021-2022 season, Stezka played for HC Vitkovice in the Czech Extraliga, where he posted a 25-14-0 record with a .925 save percentage, a 2.14 goals-against average, and five shutouts in 39 regular-season games.
He was also outstanding in the postseason, going 6-6-0 with a 1.24 GAA and a .960 save percentage.
Stezka's signing provides organizational depth to the Kraken's goaltending, and he could potentially compete for the backup role in training camp next fall.
With Martin Jones becoming a free agent, the Kraken currently only have Philipp Grubauer and Chris Driedger signed for next season.
WELCOME TO THE CREW! 🦑
— x - Seattle Kraken (@SeattleKraken) May 2, 2023
The #SeaKraken have signed goaltender Ales Stezka to a one-year, entry level contract ($950k AAV). pic.twitter.com/nPVqYm2o66
Stezka's impressive performance in the Czech league and in international competition, where he represented his native Czechia at the IIHF U-20 World Junior Championship in 2016, makes him an intriguing prospect for the Kraken.
Photo Credit: Aaron Doster-USA TODAY Sports
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