The Seattle Kraken haven't had a captain since their inaugural season and it could be time for the organization to change that.
Mark Giordano was picked to be the first captain of the Kraken after they selected him from the Calgary Flames in the expansion draft. Giordano only made it to the trade deadline of the 2021-22 season before he and Colin Blackwell were traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs.
Since trading Giordano, the Kraken have felt they didn't have the correct person to appoint as captain for several reasons. Players were too young and not ready for the role or veterans who could fill the role but didn't have a guaranteed future with the franchise.
Now heading into the 2024-25 season, the Kraken have revamped their lineup hoping to make a push for the playoffs. Leadership will be needed and could help the Kraken in the long run. Picking the right player for the job won't be an easy decision for the Kraken management and coaching staff.
The Hockey News' Michael Traikos mentioned that the role could be filled by Matty Beniers who was drafted as a potential captain.
"The feeling is that the team is keeping the letter warm for second-overall pick Matty Beniers, who was described as a “future captain” when he was drafted. But after winning the Calder Trophy in 2023, Beniers experienced a sophomore slump last season, so don’t expect the team to put any more pressure on him."
Related: What Quinton Byfield's Contract Means For The Kraken and Matty Beniers
An alternative he mentions if Beniers isn't ready for the role is Brandon Montour. The veteran defenseman was the first of two big offseason signings for the Kraken and he is coming off of a Stanley Cup win with the Florida Panthers where he played a critical role on their blueline.
Related: Kraken Star Brandon Montour Reveals There Was A Possibility of Joining The Maple Leafs
Similarly to Beniers, Shane Wright could be the long-term option for the Kraken. The 20-year-old has been a captain everywhere he has gone and coaches and players have raved about his leadership on and off the ice. Wright has captained Canada at the U-17s, U-18s, World Juniors and the Kingston Frontenacs of the OHL.
Wright works as hard as anyone on the ice and could be the exemplary leader the team is looking for.
Related: Dan Bylsma Is The Perfect Coach For Shane Wright And His Success Will Continue Next Year With The Kraken
The final option to be the captain of the Seattle Kraken is Jordan Eberle. The 34-year-old has been with the franchise since the beginning and embodies what it means to be a Kraken. The young players gravitate to him and the experience he's gathered throughout his career is invaluable.
The Kraken could enter and finish this season without a captain but all of the previous Stanley Cup winners and true potential contenders have filled that role.
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