Last night, I anticipated that the Kraken would announce some of their newest cuts now that we’re a mere three days out from the Regular Season’s start, and they appear to have done so with aplomb; starting with the bombshell that of the skaters, it appears Tye Kartye has won himself a roster spot for the time being, as they’ve assigned the following players to Coachella Valley:
- Shane Wright
- Ryker Evans
Huge.
Ryker Evans being assigned is especially shocking, since the Kraken leaned on him hardcore throughout the preseason to play big minutes and nobody in the coaching staff has had anything but glowing praise for his ability to hang with professional NHLers. I would hope Evans is the first call whenever the Kraken need a replacement for an injured defender, he more than deserves it.
Wright meanwhile was a strong center that made some very intelligent plays throughout this preseason, and while I understand wanting a guy like Bellemare as your 4th line center…I don’t know if I agree with it 100%. Someone like Wright with Kartye/Yamamoto and Tanev could create a nightmare of a line. This also feeds into a good number of concerns outside observers have had regarding Shane Wright, so get ready for more of thaaaat yaaaaaay
Still, this likely gives Wright plenty of opportunity in a more substantial role on the Firebirds, and I’d imagine he’ll be seeing some form of NHL action throughout the season.
The Kraken have also placed three players on waivers for the purposes of assignment to the Firebirds:
- Chris Driedger
- Cale Fleury
- John Hayden
With these players on their way to the Valley, it can be safely assumed then that the goalie tandem for the Kraken will be Grubauer/Daccord for the time being. I don’t mind that at all, frankly.
As the week goes on, we’ll keep you updated on any further roster changes…but for now, I think we should say good luck to those going to the Firebirds (and keep your phones on, they’ll probably need you sooner than later), and congrats to Joey Daccord and Tye Kartye for making the Seattle Kraken!
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