Berkly Catton, 2024 1st round draft pick of the Seattle Kraken, is most likely headed back to the WHL for another season with the Spokane Chiefs. But from the rave reviews the 8th overall choice has garnered, it’s not out of the question for the 18-year-old center to get a first taste of the NHL this season.
THN prospect expert Tony Ferrari is among the admirers. “Catton torched the WHL, scoring over 50 goals despite being one of the most lethal playmakers in junior hockey. His ability to read the ice and then attack a weakness no matter how small was simply incredible. Catton elevates those around him with his playmaking. He flies up the ice in transition, using his quickness and agility to evade defenders while looking to set teammates up in open space.”
Chiefs general manager Matt Bardsley knows his club will be better with Catton back in the fold. “If he doesn’t have an opportunity to make the team this year, we would like to have him back, but that’s going to be up to him and the Kraken.”
Bardsley goes on to ask and answer a key question. “So, are we nervous about it? I’m not nervous about it one bit. Our job is to develop our hockey players and give them the opportunity to play pro. If he makes it, then we know we did our part, and it is a big part on him, but we’d like to feel like we’ve had a hand in it as well.”
Count Kraken coach Dan Byslma among the Catton believers as well. Byslma explains what he saw from the prospect at development camp in this Kraken Reaction.