The Seattle Kraken want to make some noise this season in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, and the team is searching for some more high-end talent to boost their top six. While trade talks are evolving with the roster freeze behind us, don’t be surprised to see the Kraken acquire a big-name forward, and include Shane Wright in the package.

Wright was almost dealt for Artemi Panarin, but Panarin made it clear to the Kraken he had no interest in signing an extension. Wright’s struggled so far in the early stages of his NHL career, however, he’s loaded with untapped potential, and it seems like it’s only a matter of time before he figures out how to consistently produce.

Wright, 22, is signed through next season and will be a pending restricted free agent after the 2027 season. So far through 56 games this season, he’s scored 11 goals and added 11 assists, for 22 points. Wright is averaging just 13:54 of ice-time per game and continues to play a bottom-six role, which includes some time at center, however, since he’s only 39% in the faceoff dot, that doesn’t seem to be a fit.

Sportsnet’s Nick Kypreos recently commented on Wright’s future in Seattle, and had this to say:

Through 56 games, Wright is only halfway to his full-season point total from 2024-25, which has been disappointing for a Kraken team that could really use more offence. However, he’s just 22 years old and only four years removed from being selected fourth overall in the draft, so the collection of NHL teams eager to get younger on the pro roster might want to take a shot at Wright’s upside. If Seattle, currently third in the Pacific Division, can find the scoring it needs in a trade, Wright would absolutely be someone the team would entertain moving.

The Kraken have $16 million in cap space to work with, and two first-round picks this season and next, along with three second-round picks in 2027. They’ve been linked to either Jordan Kyrou or Robert Thomas out of St. Louis, and if a deal finalizes, don’t be surprised to see Wright included.

Photo credit:  Stephen Brashear-Imagn ImagesÂ