The Seattle Kraken have only gone through four drafts, yet they’ve quickly built an elite prospect pool with great potential in the top five and some good overall depth beyond that. Shane Wright and Berkly Catton are the two most likely stars, while goalie prospect Niklas Kokko and wingers Jagger Firkus and Jani Nyman round out what Byron Bader of Hockey Prospecting ranks as the eighth-best prospect pool in the NHL heading into the 2024-25 season. Here’s an expanded look at the Kraken’s top five prospects:
5. Jani Nyman (19 years old, Right Wing)
Jani Nyman has emerged as one of the most underrated prospects in the NHL. At 6’4″, he brings an imposing physical presence to the ice. In the 2023-24 season, Nyman showcased his scoring prowess in Finland’s top professional league, Liiga, notching 26 goals and 43 points in just 48 games for Ilves.
Nyman’s performance is awe-inspiring, considering Liiga’s status as one of the world’s top hockey leagues. Despite missing 12 regular season games, he finished 26th in points and second in goals league-wide, competing against seasoned professionals. His point-per-game ratio was even more remarkable, ranking 14th in points and first in goals.
Nyman’s strengths lie in his powerful shot and high hockey IQ. As he transitions to North American ice with the Coachella Valley Firebirds in the AHL, all eyes will be on whether he can maintain his offensive dominance. If successful, Nyman could develop into an elite middle-six winger for the Kraken shortly.
4. Jagger Firkus (20 years old, Right Wing)
Jagger Firkus, a 2022 second-round pick, has proven to be more than just a memorable name. In the 2023-24 WHL season, Firkus dominated the league with 61 goals and 126 points in 63 games for the Moose Jaw Warriors, leading the league in points and finishing second in goals.
Despite his modest 5’11” frame, Firkus possesses a lethal wrist shot, combining strength and ability to score in motion. His aggressive net-front presence and knack for finding optimal shooting angles make him a constant offensive threat.
While Firkus has a chance to make the Kraken’s NHL roster out of training camp, he’ll likely join the talented group in Coachella Valley for further development. His skillset translates well to the NHL level, projecting him as a potential top-six forward with 30+ goals and 75+ points potential in his prime years.
3. Niklas Kokko (20 years old, Goaltender)
Niklas Kokko stands out as one of the NHL’s top goaltending prospects. At 6’4″, he combines ideal size with consistency and a strong track record. Kokko posted impressive numbers in the 2023-24 Liiga season: an 11-5-5 record, a .917 save percentage, 1.86 goals against average, and five shutouts.
Kokko’s strengths lie in his composure and ability to minimize mistakes, providing a solid foundation for his development. While projecting goaltenders is notoriously tricky due to the position’s volatility, Kokko’s performance in a top European league bodes well for his future.
He’s likely a few seasons away from NHL action, making continued monitoring of his development crucial. For now, Kraken fans should keep an eye on his progress as he hones his skills in professional competition.
2. Berkly Catton (18 years old, Center/Left Wing)
Berkly Catton, the Kraken’s 8th overall pick in the 2024 NHL Draft, immediately became the organization’s top prospect behind Shjane Wright. Catton is an elite playmaker with exceptional vision and hands, complemented by a deceptively powerful shot. His 54 goals and impressive point total in 68 games for the WHL’s Spokane Chiefs last season highlight his offensive capabilities.
While Catton is expected to return to Spokane for the 2024-25 season, his NHL debut may not be far off. Primarily a winger but capable at center, Catton is among the most promising NHL-affiliated prospects. Scouts project his ceiling as a 30+ goal, 85+ point player in his prime, though a more conservative estimate of 20+ goals and 70+ points per season might be more realistic.
## 1. Shane Wright (20 years old, Center)
Once granted exceptional player status by Hockey Canada, Shane Wright remains the Kraken’s top prospect despite some setbacks due to the COVID-19 pandemic. His development has progressed well, contrary to some skeptics’ expectations.
In the 2023-24 AHL season, Wright demonstrated his scoring ability with 22 goals and 47 points in 55 games for the Coachella Valley Firebirds. His performance ranked among the top U21 prospects in the AHL in points per game.
The upcoming season is crucial for Wright’s NHL aspirations. A strong offensive showing could cement his path to becoming a top-six center with 25+ goals and 80+ point potential. However, if he struggles under the increased pressure, it might temper expectations, potentially leading to a projection as an above-average middle-six center with a longer development curve.
The Kraken’s prospect pool, bolstered by these five standouts and several other promising players, positions the franchise well for future success. While immediate Stanley Cup contention may not be realistic, the depth and potential of their young talent suggest that Seattle could emerge as a formidable force in the NHL within the next 4-5 seasons.
