The Seattle Kraken have re-signed Matty Beniers after a month and a half of free agency. The announcement was made on a busy Tuesday afternoon. Beniers, a 21-year-old left-handed center, was drafted second overall in the 2021 NHL Entry Draft. He played two seasons at the University of Michigan, appearing in 61 games and amassing 67 points (30 goals, 37 assists). He also represented the USA in various international competitions, including the World Junior Classic, World Classic, and Olympic Games.
In 2023, Beniers won the Calder Memorial Trophy as the NHL’s top rookie and was named to the 2022-23 All-Rookie Team after leading all rookies with 24 goals, 57 points, and 46 even-strength points. He’s one of two players from the 2021 draft class to reach the 100-point milestone, with 103 points (42 goals, 61 assists). Notably, Beniers is the first draft pick in Kraken history to sign an extension.
Matty Beniers
During the 2023-24 season, Beniers recorded 37 points (15 goals, 22 assists) in 77 games, experiencing a bit of a sophomore slump. In the previous 2022-23 season, he played 80 games, tallying 57 points (24 goals, 33 assists). Beniers has been a crucial part of the team both on and off the ice, with his strong commitment to the community and fans. Re-signing him was a top priority for the Kraken’s offseason, and the team is eager to see him continue to grow and contribute to the franchise’s success.
General Manager Ron Francis expressed his excitement about securing Beniers with a seven-year contract worth $7.1 million AAV. The signing leaves the Kraken with just over $4,000 in cap space.
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