Welcome to another riveting edition of NHL Rumours! As the scorching dog days of summer slowly fade away, the heart-pounding excitement of hockey’s return looms ever closer. The hockey world eagerly awaits the arrival of fall, signalling the imminent return of their beloved sport. Amidst the anticipation, the spotlight is shining brightly on the numerous restricted free agent players who remain unsigned, sparking fervent speculation and gossip among fans and analysts alike. Today, our NHL Rumours focus intently on the enigmatic Seattle Kraken and their elusive RFA forward.
The countdown to the start of the season is ticking away, leaving the hockey universe teetering on the edge of their seats. With each passing day, the pressure mounts for teams to secure their roster for the upcoming battles on the ice. One player who has captured the attention of many is none other than the dynamic centre for the Seattle Kraken, the one and only Matty Beniers.
The latest whispers in the world of NHL Rumours revolve around the talented Kraken centre. Beniers, a standout performer during his time at the University of Michigan, wasted no time in making his presence felt upon entering the NHL. Being the first-ever draft selection for the Kraken, he displayed a flair for the game that hinted at a promising future ahead. Wherever Beniers goes, success seems to follow in his wake.
In his debut season, Beniers showcased his prowess in a ten-game stint, nearly averaging a point per game. The anticipation surrounding his potential was palpable, as fans eagerly awaited his full-season debut in 2022-23. Beniers did not disappoint, notching an impressive 24 goals and 57 points, cementing his status as a rising star in the league. However, like many young talents, he faced the infamous sophomore slump in the following season, experiencing a slight decline in his production.
Despite the slight setback, it is crucial to remember that Beniers is far from a subpar player. The timing of his sophomore slump, occurring in a contract year, may raise some eyebrows, but rest assured, General Manager Ron Francis remains steadfast in his belief in Beniers’ potential. In a reassuring statement following the season’s conclusion, Francis declared, “I have no concerns about Matty’s game long-term. He’ll be a big part of this organization for a lot of years moving forward.”
The scrutiny and expectations placed on young players in today’s sports landscape are immense. The weight of the draft label can be burdensome, especially after a standout rookie season. Despite the challenges Beniers faced in his second year, at only 21 years old, his brightest moments on the ice are yet to come. As the Kraken and their fans await the resolution of Beniers’ contract situation, the belief in his abilities and potential remains unwavering. The road ahead may be filled with uncertainties, but one thing is crystal clear – Matty Beniers’ journey in the NHL is just beginning.