Put the ‘Wright’ player on the ice

The Seattle Kraken continue to tinker with their lines in search of the perfect chemistry. While this is understandable in the pursuit of wins, the decision to make Shane Wright a healthy scratch for the last two games raises concerns about the development of a cornerstone player for the franchise.

Wright’s journey to the NHL has been far from typical. He missed an entire OHL season due to the pandemic, a critical time for growth in any young player’s career. Despite that setback, Wright has shown his potential by excelling in both the OHL and AHL, where he averaged an impressive 1.2 points per game. He was also instrumental in the Coachella Valley Firebirds' back-to-back Calder Cup runs, showing poise and talent under pressure.

The arrival of Dan Bylsma, Wright's coach during those Calder Cup runs, as the Kraken’s head coach seemed like an ideal scenario. However, Wright’s rocky start to this NHL season has seen his minutes reduced, culminating in back-to-back games in the press box. While his struggles are real, sitting him entirely doesn’t seem like the best path forward for a 20-year-old still learning the ropes of professional hockey.

If the Kraken believe Ben Meyers gives them a better chance to win games right now, sending Wright back to the AHL might be the more constructive move. Wright’s growth hinges on regular ice time, whether in Seattle or Coachella Valley. After missing crucial development time early in his career, being confined to the press box does little to help him progress.

Looking at Wright's peers from the 2022 draft class, such as Juraj Slafkovský and Logan Cooley, the difference is stark. Both are getting top-six roles, regularly skating 15-plus minutes a game. While those teams might lack the depth Seattle enjoys, their commitment to nurturing their young stars speaks volumes about their priorities.

Finding the Wright fit

The Kraken’s depth at center has created its own challenges. Matty Beniers and Chandler Stephenson occupy the top two spots, with long-term contracts solidifying their roles. For Wright, this means two potential options: a consistent spot on the third line or a shift to the wing to gain more ice time.

One intriguing possibility is pairing Wright with Jordan Eberle when the captain returns from injury. A veteran presence like Eberle could help steady Wright's game and provide mentorship. Alternatively, rotating linemates could spark chemistry and allow Wright to showcase his skills in different scenarios.

The Kraken are in the enviable position of being a deep, competitive team. But they also have a responsibility to balance winning now with fostering the potential of players like Shane Wright. His development is a long-term investment for the franchise, and opportunities to build confidence—such as upcoming matchups against struggling teams like the Ducks and Sharks—could be invaluable.

This stretch of games presents the perfect chance to let Wright show what he’s learned while watching from the press box. These are lower-pressure contests against teams near the bottom of the standings, where the focus can shift from results to growth. Whether it’s increased minutes on the wing or centering a retooled third line, giving Wright these opportunities will not only help his development but also ensure the Kraken make the most of their young star's potential.

Ultimately, Wright needs to be on the ice, learning and growing, whether that’s in Seattle or Coachella Valley. While it's easy to trust that Dan Bylsma, who knows Wright well, has his best interests at heart, fans and analysts alike would love to see the Kraken prioritize his development. Playing time, not press box stints, will turn Wright into the player the franchise hopes he can become.