Why the Kraken should shift focus to development

As the 2024-25 season rolls into its second half, the Seattle Kraken find themselves well out of the playoff race. It’s a tough pill to swallow for fans who dreamed of a return to the postseason, but it also presents an opportunity — one that should not be overlooked. This is the time for the Kraken to focus less on wins and losses and more on developing the young talent that will shape their future.

Shane Wright leading the charge

Shane Wright’s season has been a rollercoaster. He started the season cold that led to a stretch as a healthy scratch before returning to action with a red-hot streak of 12 points in 11 games. Though his production has cooled slightly, his flashes of brilliance remain undeniable. Wright, averaging just over 14 minutes of ice time in recent games, has shown he can ignite the offense alongside his linemates.

With playoff hopes nearly extinguished, it’s time to give Wright even more opportunities to grow. Whether that means increasing his ice time or experimenting with new linemates, the focus should be on fostering his confidence and chemistry with the team.

Reassessing Chandler Stephenson’s role

While Wright’s growth is exciting, the Kraken’s struggles also highlight areas of concern — namely, the second line anchored by Chandler Stephenson. Brought in to be a steady playmaker, Stephenson has led the team in assists but continues to underwhelm defensively. He’s also logging heavy minutes, averaging nearly 20 per game, far more than players like Matty Beniers or Wright who could arguably benefit more from that ice time.

Stephenson’s role on both special teams units explains some of the disparity, but it’s worth asking: Is it time to redistribute those minutes? Matty Beniers, who has quietly been one of the team’s best two-way players, and Wright, who has shown offensive potential, could take on more responsibility as the team looks to build for the future.

André Burakovsky and the need for change

Another frustrating storyline this season has been the play of André Burakovsky. After finally breaking through with his first goal in late November, fans hoped he’d turn a corner, but his production remains lackluster. Burakovsky’s ice time has already been reduced, and at this point, it might be worth considering a healthy scratch to give younger players a shot.

The Coachella Valley Firebirds have some intriguing options ready to step in, including Ryan Winterton, who has already seen some NHL time this year, and Lleyton Roed, a prospect who could bring fresh energy to the lineup.

Building a foundation for the future

Dan Bylsma’s first season as Kraken head coach was always going to come with growing pains. His track record, including leading Coachella Valley to back-to-back AHL finals, shows he knows how to develop young talent and create a winning system. This is the perfect time for him to apply those skills to the NHL roster.

General Manager Ron Francis has also made moves with an eye toward the future. While signing Chandler Stephenson to a hefty contract raised eyebrows, the trade for Kaapo Kakko brings much-needed offensive upside to a team that has struggled in that area. Kakko, along with players like Matty Beniers, Shane Wright, and Ryker Evans, represents the core of what the Kraken can build upon.

This season is not a failure — it’s a reset. The playoff run in the Kraken’s second year was a thrilling high, but so much has changed since then. The team now has an opportunity to build a sustainable foundation for success.

A focus on development

In the second half of the season, the Kraken should prioritize experimenting with line combinations and giving their younger players room to grow. Pair Eeli Tolvanen with his fellow Finn Kaapo Kakko and see what sparks fly. Try Matty Beniers and Shane Wright on a line together to see if they can become the franchise cornerstones fans hope for.

This isn’t about giving up on the season; it’s about laying the groundwork for something greater. The Kraken have a chance to develop the structure and cohesion they’ve lacked, and with patience and a focus on the long-term picture, they can turn this challenging year into a stepping stone toward sustained success.