The Seattle Kraken reacquired forward Daniel Sprong for future considerations and the skilled forward can make an instant impact with this group.
The Seattle Kraken reacquired forward Daniel Sprong for future considerations and the skilled forward can make an instant impact with this group.
The Kraken have struggled once again this year to score goals. They haven't generated enough high-danger chances and aren't making enough use of those high-danger chances. Sprong is a fast and skilled winger who could be exactly what the Kraken are looking for.
The 27-year-old set career-highs in goals and points during the 2022-23 season with the Kraken before signing with the Detroit Red Wings in the offseason. His one year with the Red Wings earned him a contract with a cup contender in the Vancouver Canucks.
Through his first nine games with the Canucks he scored just one goal and three points. The Kraken have the skilled centre depth that the Canucks may have lacked and could unlock Sprong's offensive game.
Shane Wright hasn't been pouring in the points like many people assumed or thought he could but his analytics show that the team is better with him on the ice. The Kraken generate more chances than they give up but aren't scoring. HC Dan Bylsma likely hasn't had the time to think about where Sprong fits in the lineup due to their game against the Vegas Golden Knights but next to Wright is something he can and should strongly consider.
Wright excels with speedy wingers. When he's able to feed his wingers the puck in transition and read the play from behind, Wright can be dangerous. Very few NHL players work the give-and-go better than Wright and combining Sprong's speed and playmaking ability would benefit both players.
GM Ron Francis is a believer in Sprong's skillset and thinks he can fit anywhere in the lineup and make an impact.
"He’s a guy that scored 20 for us, so we felt he was worth the gamble," said Francis. "We know we can use him up and down the lineup. We can use him on the power play. He’s got pace to his game and he knows our team and is familiar with our system."
Reports have surfaced that the Kraken could be looking to move Brandon Tanev or Yanni Gourde to free up cap space to add more offence. The Kraken currently have 13 forwards on their roster meaning a move will have to be made once Vince Dunn is ready to return. The move they make could be a trade or a demotion to the AHL but the one thing that is for certain is that something will have to give.
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