In the next edition of our Seattle Kraken Grades series, we shift focus to the best defenseman on this roster, Vince Dunn. Now, that statement of being the best D-man only reflects on the past, there could be another player that could take that title in 2024-25.
Dunn was stellar once again last season, and he led many major categories for the Kraken. As the highest paid player on this roster, he fulfills his obligations to the highest extent.
Season Recap
In 2023-24, Dunn was one of the best skaters on the ice at all times for the Kraken. He was exquisite on both ends of the ice, and he made an impact every time his name was called.
As he battled injuries throughout the season, he appeared in 59 games. Throughout those games, he netted 11 goals and added 35 assists for 46 points, which was the third-highest point total on the team. Four of those goals came on the man advantage, and that was the entirety of the goal production from the blue line on the powerplay.
The only negative thing about Dunn this past season, was his lackadaisical disregard for the rules. He was the worst Kraken player in terms of staying out of the penalty box, as he led the team in PIM with 78.
Now, let's get to his grade from 2023-24.
Again, as I said in Jared McCann's grading piece, there is no one on this team with an A grade. But, outside of McCann, Dunn is the second-best player on this team, and rightfully so. He showed that he can be a dependable blueliner for years to come.
With the addition of Brandon Montour, the potential pairing of these two could be magical. I would argue it is smart to put your two best defensemen out there on the same line, as opposed to splitting them up between the first two pairings. Why not have top forwards go with your top defensemen?
Dunn had a great year in 2023-24, does he get an A in 2024-25?