Seattle Kraken: Four Bold Predictions for the 2022-23 Season
Prediction 4: Matty Beniers or Shane Wright will be Nominated for the Calder
In a perfect world, both Matty Beniers and Shane Wright would be nominated for the Calder. However, this is not a perfect world.
Both Beniers and Wright have been highly anticipated by Kraken and NHL fans. What it will come down to is who outplays the other.
Both Top 5 picks in consecutive drafts, Beniers and Wright, have the chops to be big stars for the Seattle Kraken. The dynamic duo made the team out of training camp. And from what it sounds like, the rookies solidified a spot on the team for the remainder of the season.
Matty B.
As the first draft pick in Seattle Kraken history, Matty Beniers has high expectations to live up to. He played in a short stint with the Kraken last spring after his season with the Michigan Wolverines (NCAA) ended. In 10 NHL games, Beniers put up 9 points (3g, 6a).
Expect him to pick up exactly where he left off last season, ready and willing to compete.
Beniers draws praise for his relentless determination and spirit. He’s a hard worker and wants to win. In his cup of coffee with the team last year, the soon-to-be 20-year-old showed the character and leadership skills necessary to have a very successful and lucrative NHL career.
Prove them wrong
Shane Wright is coming off of a 94 points season as the captain of the Kingston Frontenacs (OHL). He has been a prolific player who had eyes on him for years.
Over the last year, his abilities have been directed by scouts and pundits. After falling to fourth overall in the 2022 NHL Entry Draft, Wright has plenty of motivation to push himself to prove the doubters wrong.
Naturally, Wright is a competitive player. His excellent two-way game will translate well to NHL ice, and he will add a much-needed scoring touch to the Seattle Kraken.
In the end, only one of them will be nominated for the Calder. One of them will outplay the other just slightly; a little friendly competition is healthy.
Both rookies are in a good position to have incredible rookie seasons, setting a strong foundation for the Seattle Kraken’s future success.
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What are your bold predictions about the Seattle Kraken’s 2022-23 season? Let us know in the comments below!