Matty Beniers, the Kraken’s most decorated and well-known prospect-turned-pro, solidified his role in their pursuit of the Stanley Cup as they head into their fourth season. On Tuesday, he agreed to a seven-year contract worth just under $50 million, equating to an average annual value of $7.14 million. The Kraken franchise is firmly aiming to become a regular contender for the Cup.

“Since his NHL debut, Matty has been an integral member of our team, both on the ice and with his dedication to our community and fans,” stated Ron Francis, General Manager of the Seattle Kraken. “Securing Matty with a new contract was a main focus for our offseason, and we’re thrilled to have this accomplished. We anticipate seeing Matty progress as a player and contribute to numerous more unforgettable moments for our franchise.”

Beniers and the Kraken made it clear to the media that this contract was anticipated before the start of training camp, which commences on Sept. 18, prior to the team’s season and home opener on Oct. 8. Everyone involved is enthusiastic, particularly the Seattle fans who immediately adopted the former University of Michigan star as a favorite upon his late debut in the initial season, where he scored points in nine out of his first 10 NHL games. Beniers’ winning of the 2022-23 Calder Trophy for the best NHL rookie only further increased the sales of Kraken jerseys and other merchandise featuring his No. 10.

During his first season, Beniers racked up 24 goals and 33 assists, demonstrating his skill in all zones and showing his readiness to serve as the farthest forward in the defensive zone.

Last season, 21-year-old Beniers exhibited outstanding maturity in his gameplay across all zones of the NHL’s 200-foot ice surface. Not only did he show remarkable improvement in the faceoff circle, but his exceptional performance also had numerous rival scouts speculating that the Kraken center may likely earn votes for the Selke Trophy as the best defensive forward in the coming seasons. This is due to his often overlooked, yet crucial work on the ice.

Beniers’ production in his sophomore season amounted to 15 goals and 22 assists. Upon closer examination, his output in the latter half of the year was nearly on par with his pace during his rookie season.

GM Francis undeniably speaks with authority. Holding the second highest record in NHL for assists (only surpassed by the universally acclaimed Great One, Wayne Gretzky), and having been a Selke winner himself, the Kraken GM has intimate knowledge of the challenges of outperforming in all three zones. Francis recognized the potential in Beniers’ 200-foot game early on when the Kraken center was playing U17 for the U.S. National Development Program team. When Beniers was up for grabs at No. 2 overall in the 2021 NHL Draft, the Hall of Famer and current Kraken GM was ecstatic to select Beniers as the Kraken’s inaugural draft choice.

“Francis voiced no worries regarding Matty’s long-term game during a postseason media conference in April. He asserted that Matty will play a significant role in the organization for many years to come,” he stated.

The next chapter of Kraken hockey starts now, be part of it. Season Ticket Memberships are available.