The Seattle Kraken signed Ryan Lindgren in the off-season to a four-year, $4.5 million contract, with the hope that he improves the team's defensive play.

The Kraken struggled defensively, allowing the 10th most goals in the 2024-25 season. Lindgren's experience with the New York Rangers and the Colorado Avalanche should help on that side of the puck. The 27-year-old has averaged over 19:00 of ice time in four of his six seasons in the NHL and helped elevate Adam Fox's game.

Coming to Seattle, the projected Kraken lineup has Lindgren paired with Brandon Montour.

Montour is a stout offensive defenseman who scored a career-high goals last season, and is two seasons removed from a 73-point campaign with the Florida Panthers.

When Vince Dunn was healthy, Dunn and Montour split the power play duties, which factored into why their numbers were lower than what they've previously shown. Both Dunn and Montour need to pick up more points at even strength to keep their numbers up to par if they are going to continue to split power play duties.

Lindgren's addition and defensive abilities should do so for Montour.

Ryan Lindgren (Sergei Belski-Imagn Images)

Lindgren is trusted defensively, and Montour can feel confident to jump into the play more frequently, both on the rush and with possession in the offensive zone. Fox won a Norris Trophy playing next to Lindgren.

Although it is highly unlikely that Montour wins a Norris Trophy, he could put up great numbers alongside Lindgren.

Kraken Sign Ryan Lindgren To A Four-Year Contract The Seattle Kraken have signed defenseman Ryan Lindgren to a four-year, $4.5 million AAV contract. 

Will Kraken's Ryan Lindgren Elevate Brandon Montour's Offensive Game