THN Draft Issue Recommends Seattle Kraken Get Defensive

Age may be just a number, but according to a revealing stat from THN's Draft Preview Issue, that number works against the Seattle Kraken.

In its team-by-team breakdown (photo above), the THN special issue points out "Seattle was the third-oldest team in the league behind Pittsburgh and Edmonton.

"While that experience proved to be a stabilizing force a year ago, it’s clear a few more youthful bodies would provide a needed spark. Matty Beniers and Tye Kartye were the only regulars who finished the season aged 24 or younger."

Among the many Kraken-specific nuggets in the issue, "Long Term Needs" also address the age of the defense corps.

"GM Ron Francis has focused mainly on forwards with his early picks in Seattle’s first three drafts. Of seven choices in the top 50, only Ryker Evans plays defense. The only two blueline regulars under 30 are Vince Dunn and Will Borgen, and both turn 28 later this year.

"Don’t be surprised to see the Kraken load up on D-men with five picks in the first three rounds."

Firebirds Extend Stay In Hershey

Staying on the subject of prospects, the Kraken AHL farm team still has more hockey to play. The Coachella Valley Firebirds have been practicing in Hershey, PA and scouting the Eastern Conference Finals between the Bears and Cleveland Monsters.

We have photographic proof of Dan Bylsma, so talented he's both the coach of the Firebirds AND Kraken, taking in Game 7 at Giant Center Wednesday night. (Bylsma is in the blue shirt and glasses leaning forward behind the railing.)

Bylsma and his coaching staff saw the Bears win in OT, setting up a Coachella Valley-Hershey Calder Cup Final rematch from 2023. Game 1 is Friday at 4 pm Pacific time.