John Hayden – The Gritty, Hard-Hitting Forward
Journey to Seattle: Originally drafted by the Chicago Blackhawks in 2013, John Hayden has built his career as a hard-nosed, physical forward. He has since played with several teams, including New Jersey, Arizona, and Buffalo, before signing with Seattle in 2022. Known for his toughness and work ethic, Hayden was brought into Seattle’s organization to add physicality and depth.
Playing Style and Expectations: Hayden’s game centers around his size and physicality. At 6'3" and 220 pounds, he’s a powerful presence on the ice, bringing a gritty edge that wears down opponents and brings energy to his team. Hayden thrives in a bottom-six role, where he can deliver punishing hits, battle for pucks along the boards, and contribute with the occasional net-front screen. His play style makes him effective in games that require a physical edge, as he’s never afraid to drop the gloves or engage in the “dirty work” that helps shift momentum.
Hayden’s offensive game is limited, and he’s not expected to score much, but his role in Seattle is less about points and more about setting a tone. In a fourth-line role, he’ll likely be relied upon for energy shifts and to protect leads late in games, especially when Seattle needs a tough, defensive presence. For Kraken fans, Hayden is a player to watch when the team needs grit and physicality—he’s a reliable option for high-energy situations and tough matchups.