The Seattle Kraken’s rookie camp, which commenced on Thursday, September 12, 2024, has brought together a diverse group of young talents, each with a unique story and potential. This annual event serves as a crucial stepping stone for prospects aiming to make their mark in the National Hockey League (NHL). It provides the Kraken organization with valuable insights into its future roster composition.
Shane Wright: The Centerpiece
Shane Wright, the Kraken’s highly-touted first-round pick from 2022, continues to be the focal point of the rookie camp. Despite his limited NHL experience – 16 games spread evenly across the 2022-23 and 2023-24 seasons – Wright’s presence looms large over the proceedings.
Wright’s development took significant strides during the 2023-24 NHL season. While his eight-game stint with the Kraken showcased flashes of his potential, it was his time with the Coachella Valley Firebirds in the AHL that truly allowed him to flourish. Under the guidance of coach Dan Bylsma, who has since taken the helm of the Kraken, Wright honed his skills and adapted to the professional game.
Wright’s performance in the AHL was nothing short of impressive. He tallied 20 goals and 35 assists for 55 points in 62 games, demonstrating his offensive prowess and playmaking abilities. His strong two-way game and leadership qualities also came to the fore, earning him increased responsibilities as the season progressed.
When he stepped on the ice, Wright’s maturity and confidence were evident at the rookie camp. As the first player to take the ice and the one leading drills, he embodied the leadership role expected of a top prospect. Wright’s own words reflect his growth:
“I think it’s just the maturity and confidence. I understand what it’s like to play at the pro level. And at the NHL level especially.”
The 2024-25 season is a critical juncture in Wright’s career. With Dan Bylsma now at the helm of the Kraken, there’s an expectation that Wright will transition into a regular or semi-regular fixture in the NHL lineup. Another season primarily spent in the AHL could raise questions about his long-term future with the organization.
Goaltending Prospects
The goaltending situation at the rookie camp has taken an unexpected turn. Contrary to earlier predictions, Kim Saarinen, the Kraken’s 2024 3rd-round draft pick, is not participating in the camp. Instead, the netminding duties are being shared by two promising prospects:
Niklas Kokko: The Finnish goaltender brings a blend of youth and potential to the crease.
Victor Ostman: At 24, Ostman represents a more seasoned presence among the rookies. His experience includes three consecutive seasons with the University of Maine in the NCAA, where he played over 20 games each year from 2021 to 2024. Ostman’s transition to professional hockey marks a significant milestone in his career as he looks to establish himself in the AHL and potentially the NHL.
Other Notable Prospects
Berkly Catton: As the Kraken’s 8th overall pick in the 2024 draft, Catton arrives at rookie camp with high expectations. The 18-year-old forward’s stellar performance in the WHL, where he amassed 116 points (54 goals, 62 assists) in 68 games last season, has generated considerable buzz.
Ville Ottavainen: The Finnish defenseman, drafted in 2021, has made significant strides in his development. After honing his skills in Finland’s top league, Ottavainen had an impressive 2023-24 season with the Firebirds, recording 34 points (8 goals, 26 assists) and a plus-27 rating in 70 games.
Logan Morrison and Ryan Winterton: Both forwards are returning to rookie camp with NHL experience under their belts. Winterton, 21, appeared in nine games for the Kraken in 2023-24, while Morrison, 22, played in four. Their development and performance in this camp could determine their roles for the upcoming season.
Jagger Firkus: A second-round pick from the same draft class as Wright, Firkus has been turning heads in the WHL. His remarkable 2023-24 season with the Moose Jaw Warriors, where he tallied 126 points (61 goals, 66 assists) in 63 games, earned him the David Branch Player of the Year Award.
Looking Ahead
The rookie camp will continue tomorrow with more drills before the prospects head to Los Angeles for the Rookie Faceoff Tournament. There, they will face off against rookies from the Colorado Avalanche and Vegas Golden Knights.
As the blades hit the ice and the sound of pucks echoes through the rink, the excitement of a new hockey season begins to build. The rookie camp represents more than just a prelude to the main training camp; it’s a glimpse into the future of the Seattle Kraken organization. Each drill, each shift, and each game in the upcoming tournament could be the moment that propels a young player from prospect to NHL regular.
For the Kraken, a franchise still in its infancy, nurturing and developing young talent is paramount. The success of players like Shane Wright, Berkly Catton, and Jagger Firkus could shape the team’s fortunes for years to come. As September unfolds and the baby Krakens take their first steps towards NHL stardom, the future of hockey in Seattle looks brighter than ever.
