Player Profile: John Hayden

Seattle Kraken forward John Hayden is a player who embodies grit, tenacity, and physicality on the ice. Known for his relentless energy and willingness to throw his weight around, Hayden has carved out a reputation as a power forward who can be counted on to bring a hard-nosed game every shift. Here’s a look at what Hayden brings to the Kraken and how he could fit into their lineup.

Background and Career Path

John Hayden, a 6'3", 220-pound forward from Chicago, Illinois, was originally drafted 74th overall by the Chicago Blackhawks in 2013 after playing his college hockey at Yale University. Known for his strength, character, and leadership at Yale, Hayden entered the NHL with a reputation as a big, physical forward with a strong work ethic. Since his NHL debut in 2017, he has played for the Blackhawks, New Jersey Devils, Arizona Coyotes, and Buffalo Sabres before signing with the Seattle Kraken in 2022.

Playing Style and Strengths

Hayden’s game is built around physicality, energy, and a willingness to do the “dirty work” in the corners and in front of the net. Here’s what he brings to the Kraken:

1. Physical Presence: At 6'3" and 220 pounds, Hayden plays a tough, heavy game and is unafraid to throw big hits. He’s known for his punishing style along the boards and his ability to bring an edge that can disrupt opponents. His physicality can shift momentum and wear down the opposition.
2. Grit and Toughness: Hayden brings a tough, blue-collar mentality that is invaluable in grinding situations. He’s willing to block shots, battle in the corners, and take hits to make plays, which can inspire teammates and create space for more skilled players. His toughness has also led him to drop the gloves on occasion to stand up for teammates or spark his team.
3. Net-Front Presence: Although Hayden’s offensive numbers are modest, he’s effective in front of the net, screening goaltenders and pouncing on rebounds. His large frame and strength make him tough to move, and he’s capable of tipping pucks and causing chaos around the crease.
4. Leadership and Character: Known for his maturity and leadership qualities, Hayden has been respected in every locker room he’s been in. He was a captain at Yale and has always been seen as a positive influence on and off the ice. This leadership ability adds value to Seattle’s developing core.

Areas for Improvement

Despite his physical tools and gritty style, there are areas where Hayden’s game could improve to solidify his spot in the Kraken lineup:

• Offensive Production: Hayden’s offensive game is limited, and he’s generally not expected to contribute much in terms of goals and assists. Improving his puck skills, positioning, and shot selection could help him chip in more consistently. As a bottom-six forward, any offensive contributions are a bonus, but a slight boost could make him a more versatile option.
• Skating and Speed: While Hayden’s physical game is strong, his skating speed and quickness are average at best. Faster-paced NHL games can sometimes expose his foot speed, which can make it difficult to keep up with quicker forwards on both ends of the ice. Improving his speed and agility could help him become more effective on the forecheck and in defensive coverage.

Role with the Kraken and Future Outlook

With the Kraken, Hayden is projected as a bottom-six forward, likely seeing time on the fourth line in a grinder role. He brings a style of play that adds physicality and depth to Seattle’s lineup and provides insurance for when the team needs to get tougher or more energetic. His penalty-killing ability and toughness make him a solid fit for Seattle’s hard-working, defensively-minded system.

NHL Projection

Hayden’s projected role is that of a depth forward, ideal for fourth-line duties or spot duty in high-energy games. His skill set is valued for specific matchups and situations, particularly against physical opponents where his size and grit are most needed. He’s not likely to become a top scorer but can be relied upon for energy, consistency, and a willingness to battle every shift.

Comparables

John Hayden’s role is similar to players like Matt Martin or Nicolas Deslauriers—physical, bottom-six forwards who excel at adding grit and energy without taking on major offensive responsibilities. His game might not make highlight reels, but he’s the type of player teams rely on for energy shifts and momentum-changing hits.

Final Takeaway

John Hayden brings exactly what Seattle wants from a depth forward: energy, physicality, and a team-first mentality. He’s a player who can get under opponents’ skin, deliver big hits, and set the tone physically for his team. For Kraken fans, he’s a player to watch in those tough, grinding games when the team needs a jolt of energy. Although his offensive ceiling is limited, his reliability, toughness, and team-first approach make him a solid piece of Seattle’s bottom-six forward group.