The Seattle Kraken made headlines today as they wrapped up a busy week of trades just before the NHL trade deadline. One of the most talked-about moves was the trade of Brandon Tanev, a popular player known for his energetic playing style and dedication. He has been a fan favorite in Seattle since joining the team, but now he is heading back to the Winnipeg Jets, the team where his NHL journey began.
Seattle Kraken Trade Fan Favorite Brandon Tanev
Brandon Tanev was traded back to the Winnipeg Jets on Friday, marking a significant moment for both the player and the team. The Kraken managed to strike a deal that sent Tanev and a fifth-round pick in 2026 in exchange for a second-round draft pick in 2027 from the Jets. This move comes as Tanev’s contract ends this season, making him a free agent after the current NHL calendar wraps up.
Seattle Kraken’s Trade Deadline Strategy
As part of a strategic shift for the team, the Kraken have been actively reshuffling their roster. They also traded Yanni Gourde and Oliver Bjorkstrand to the Tampa Bay Lightning earlier this week. These transactions highlight the team’s focus on accumulating draft picks and rebuilding, especially given their current standing, which sees them out of playoff contention with a record of 26 wins, 33 losses, and 4 overtime losses.
A Look at What the Kraken Gained
In total, the Kraken secured a significant haul from their recent trades. Here’s a quick list of what they have acquired:
- Two first-round draft picks from Tampa Bay, conditional on draft position.
- A second-round draft pick from Winnipeg in exchange for Tanev.
- Forward Michael Eyssimont from Tampa Bay.
By obtaining five picks across the first two rounds of the next three NHL drafts, the Kraken are setting up a brighter future centered on younger talent.
Tanev’s Journey Back to Winnipeg
For Tanev, returning to Winnipeg is a homecoming of sorts. He played for the Jets from 2015 to 2019 before joining the Pittsburgh Penguins and eventually landing in Seattle. During his tenure in Seattle, Tanev made a mark by playing all 82 games last season and contributing to their playoff push.
The 33-year-old winger is not just known for his skills on the ice; his infectious energy and personality made him a beloved player among fans. This season, he has scored 9 goals and provided 8 assists over 60 games, proving his value as a versatile forward.
The Kraken’s Path Forward
The trades indicate that the Seattle Kraken are looking towards the future, aiming to build a stronger, more competitive team. With their current position in the standings, focusing on drafting promising players becomes crucial. Fans are wondering what the next steps will be for the team as they regroup and train for the new season.
As the ice cools down in Seattle, the team is heating up on the trade front, making strategic decisions to help the Kraken rise in the coming years. Fans can look forward to seeing how these young prospects contribute to the team’s growth in the seasons to come. For now, the Kraken have set themselves on a path that could reshape their future in the NHL.
