A lot has happened for the Seattle Kraken over the past couple of weeks. In the latest edition of the Kraken news and rumors, we’ll discuss what’s been happening both on and off the ice.
Ron Francis Stepping Down
Before we go into the nitty-gritty details of the on-ice news, let’s discuss the major behind-the-scenes news that has since developed. Ron Francis will be stepping down from his role as the Kraken’s president of hockey operations. He was also the Kraken’s first general manager (GM) for the Kraken’s previous six seasons, getting the team ready for the 2021 NHL Expansion Draft and the NHL itself. Francis was promoted to president at the end of last season.
The news was announced on April 8, and on April 9, Kraken’s CEO Tod Leiweke spoke at a media availability.
Jason Botterill is the Kraken’s current general manager, and based on what Leiweke said, it doesn’t look like he’s out just yet. Botterill will be an integral part of auditing the hockey operations and deciding who comes into the front office side of things. He has already identified some candidates for the job.
When Leiweke was asked about whether or not head coach Lane Lambert would return, he did not give a definitive answer. On April 10, Gregg Bell asked Leiweke about whether or not Lambert would return, and he stated, “Yes, I fully anticipate Lane coming back.” Hopefully, this means the Kraken will not have their fourth coach in six seasons.
Kraken Goaltending Woes
The Kraken decided to carry three goaltenders at the beginning of this season. Unfortunately, that has not worked out in their favor. Matt Murray has been out with an injury since November. He was finally able to return to the lineup, but is unfortunately away to tend to a family matter. Here’s hoping everything is okay with him, and Murray will return soon.
In addition to Murray’s absence, Philipp Grubauer was injured in the game on April 6 against the Winnipeg Jets. He exited the game after 33 minutes of ice time, and Joey Daccord came in to finish out the game and played the full 60 minutes in the next game on April 7.
The Kraken recalled goaltender Nikke Kokko from their American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate team, the Coachella Valley Firebirds, ahead of their game on April 9. Daccord was in the net again in this game, but was in clear discomfort after making a save. He finished out the game and pulled out the victory for the Kraken. However, Daccord was being evaluated on April 10 for the potential injury he had sustained.
There are just four games left in the 2025-26 NHL season for the Kraken, and with Kokko called up, he should get the chance to play at the NHL level regardless. He played in one game last season, after Daccord allowed five goals in the first 30 minutes.
Kokko deserves his chance to play a full NHL game. But the Kraken have to decide whether or not carrying three goaltenders on their roster is even worth it for next season. On top of this, Murray’s only signed until the end of the season, so they have to decide whether or not to let him go.
The Kraken have some big decisions to make coming up, but even more so in the forefront, they need to start Kokko in their next game.
Winterton Returns to the Lineup
On April 6, Ryan Winterton made his return to the Kraken lineup. He stepped away from the team to grieve the loss of his brother, Jacob, to cancer. He was 25 years old.
Winterton was very close to his brother, calling him his best friend. Glad to hear that Winterton was able to take time away to grieve this unimaginable loss and that he is now in a place to return to the team.
Eberle Nominated for Bill Masterton Trophy
The end of the season is drawing nearer, and with that, it means it’s time for awards season. The Professional Hockey Writers’ Association (PHWA) announced each chapter’s nomination for the Bill Masterton trophy. This award is given to a player who demonstrates the qualities of perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to the game. This season, Seattle’s chapter nominated Jordan Eberle.
Related: Kraken’s Jordan Eberle Nominated for 2026 Bill Masterton Trophy
Eberle faced what was almost a career-ending injury last season. He had to endure surgery and a grueling recovery process to even walk again, let alone skate. His performance this season is something to be impressed with. He currently has the most goals he has ever scored in his time with the Kraken, with 25. He currently leads the team in points with 54 for the season.
The PHWA will narrow the list of 32 players down to three and choose the winner from one of those finalists. Whether Eberle is selected to be a finalist or not, he should still be honored to receive the nomination.
Kraken Back on Saturday
The Kraken will be back in action on Saturday, April 11, when they host the Calgary Flames.
