The Seattle Kraken have made a significant move by signing center Matty Beniers to a seven-year contract that will keep him with the team through the 2030-31 season. This deal, which averages $7.14 million per year, secures the franchise’s first-ever draft pick and former Calder Trophy winner.
Beniers, who was a restricted free agent, becomes the first player drafted by the Kraken to sign a contract extension. General Manager Ron Francis expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “Matty has been a core part of our team since making his NHL debut, not only on the ice but in his commitment to our community and our fans. Signing Matty to a new contract was a top priority for our offseason, and we are excited to have it done. We’re looking forward to seeing Matty take the next steps as a player and watching him contribute to many more memorable moments for our franchise.”
Selected second overall in the 2021 NHL Draft, Beniers made an immediate impact during his debut season, scoring 24 goals and accumulating 57 points, which earned him the Calder Trophy as the league’s top rookie. He played a crucial role in leading the Kraken to the playoffs in only their second season.
However, last season was more challenging for Beniers and the entire Kraken team, as they struggled with scoring. He recorded 15 goals and 37 points, with his shooting percentage dropping from 16.2% to 11.3%. Despite this setback, Beniers’ potential remains high, and the Kraken are optimistic about his future contributions.
With this new contract, the Kraken are not only securing a key player for the long term but also investing in their future as they aim to return to the playoffs. As the franchise continues to build around young talent like Beniers, fans can look forward to more exciting moments ahead.
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