Matty Beniers signs seven year $50 million contract with Kraken

The Kraken Tuesday morning, signed forward Matty Beniers to a seven-year contract that amounts to a cut above seven million a year. The first Kraken draft pick is locked up as a foundation piece for the future.

Beniers, the first Kraken draft pick in 2021, finished his rookie season in 2023 winning the Calder Trophy for best rookie. Beniers in 2023 finished with 24 goals and 33 assists, helping Seattle a game away from the Western Conference Finals.

General Manager Ron Francis said about the signing, “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.”

Beniers saw a sophomore slump that yielded 15 goals and 22 assists last season.

The news likely solidifies the core the Kraken will hope to use in their next chapter.

The Kraken will embark on a new journey in 2024 with new head coach Dan Bylsma from AHL affiliate Coachella Valley. Bylsma led Coachella in their first two years of existence to finalist appearances in the Calder Cup. Aside with bringing talent from Coachella Valley, Seattle added two key free agent acquisitions in the offseason.

Chandler Stephenson signed a seven-year deal for Seattle at over $43 million, providing a 200-foot game for Seattle after having won Stanley Cups with Washington and Vegas. Also added was Florida Panthers Stanley Cup champion Brandon Montour for a similar seven year $50 million deal.

According to Puckpedia, the Kraken have a projected $4,286 in cap space.

This offseason goes as one of the most aggressive for general manager Ron Francis compared to how he has spent money in the past.

Seattle adds veterans with Stanley Cup experience with hopes of a deep playoff run. Locking up Beniers for seven years solidifies the Michigan product as a constant fixture in the future of the Seattle Kraken.

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