Seattle Kraken Prospect Focus: Matty Beniers is the Start of a Strong Foundation
Seattle Will Be a Better Team with Beniers
As the Seattle Kraken prepared for their expansion draft, it became clear that a big focus for the team was their defense and putting together a team that was a physical powerhouse. However, putting so much emphasis on building a heavy-hitting roster has somewhat backfired on the team that thought they could be competitive going into the season.
Granted, a big part of Seattle’s struggles can be attributed to the fact that this is a team that has only played together for 23 games. They are still finding their sea legs and developing chemistry up and down the roster. Nevertheless, their struggles on the ice seem to bleed into one another, making it hard to distinguish where the team needs the most work.
Starting down the middle isn’t a bad idea though. While Yanni Gourde, Alexander Wennberg, and Morgan Geekie are all serviceable centermen, it is unlikely the Kraken will find success unless they add a player of Beniers caliber to their Top 9. His style on the ice seems as though it will fit perfectly among the trio.
He isn’t going to be the be-all-end-all for the Seattle Kraken. However, when he makes his break into the NHL, the Kraken will be a better team because of it. His wide range of skills and strengths will make him an important piece for Seattle’s future.