Report: Big Changes Are Coming To Seattle Kraken This Summer
GM Ron Francis moved out key veterans Yanni Gourde, Brandon Tanev, Oliver Bjorkstrand, and Daniel Sprong, collecting a significant haul of draft picks in return—five first-rounders and five second-rounders over the next three years.
“I’m not sitting here saying we’re looking to draft 10 players,” Francis said. “In a perfect world, we’re looking to move some of these draft capital pieces to try and acquire players.”
With roughly $21 million in cap space and a mix of young talent and established veterans, Seattle has the flexibility to reshape its roster quickly.
Eeli Tolvanen continues the Kraken's puck tipping clinic.
— Emerald City Hockey (@EmeraldCityHky) March 2, 2025
Good job by Ryker Evans to realize Tolvanen was completely uncovered and give him a slow, tippable shot. pic.twitter.com/0MQTCYpjw9
Several players could be on the move this summer, including Eeli Tolvanen and Jamie Oleksiak, who drew interest at the trade deadline and may still be trade candidates.
Booth also speculated that Ron Francis might consider moving core players like Jared McCann or Vince Dunn if the right deal emerges. Philipp Grubauer and Andre Burakovsky are potential buyout candidates, though the cost of doing so would be significant.
The Kraken’s commitment to a younger, faster team is evident in their recent acquisition of Kaapo Kakko and the development of prospects like Shane Wright, Jani Nyman, and Berkly Catton. The team may also explore adding a playmaking defenseman to complement Brandon Montour.
Posted Tanev, but here's big Jamie Oleksiak, who'd instantly upgrade any team's blueline if they were to get him. A huge player who struggled under Bylsma, but thrives as a netfront clearer, slapshot taker and overall rugged two-way defenceman. https://t.co/mhF6b59VIn pic.twitter.com/GmyHvulIBo
— PAVEL Analytics powered by TDDT (@TData_5115) March 7, 2025
Francis acknowledged injuries played a role in the team’s struggles but knows the roster needs upgrades. “Obviously, we want to get healthy and hope that that happens next year,” he said, while also recognizing that injuries alone don’t excuse missing the playoffs.
With a potential top-five pick in the upcoming draft and a deep pool of assets, the Kraken have multiple avenues to improve.
Whether Francis opts for further selling or uses his draft capital aggressively in trades, this summer could determine whether Seattle re-emerges as a playoff contender or continues its roster reset.
Photo Credit: Kyle Ross-Imagn Images
