As the Kraken embark on their fourth season with a clear ambition to become consistent contenders for the Stanley Cup, their most famous and highly-acclaimed prospect who has become a genuine professional, Matty Beniers, confirmed his commitment to this goal on Tuesday. He agreed to a seven-year contract worth just under $50 million over the duration, averaging at $7.14 million annually.

“Securing Matty on a new contract was high on our offseason agenda and we’re thrilled to have accomplished it,” stated Ron Francis, General Manager of Seattle Kraken. “Matty has been an integral member of our team since his NHL debut, contributing significantly both on the ice and in his dedication to our community and supporters. We eagerly anticipate Matty’s continued growth as a player and his contribution to creating many more unforgettable moments for our franchise.”

Beniers and the Kraken had made it clear to the media that they anticipated this contract to be finalized before training camp starts on Sept. 18, leading up to the season and home opener on Oct. 8. Everyone is thrilled, including the Seattle fans who quickly took a liking to the former University of Michigan star when he made his debut late in the inaugural season, scoring points in nine of his first 10 NHL games. Securing the 2022-23 Calder Trophy for the best NHL rookie only increased the demand for jerseys and other Kraken gear featuring Beniers’ No. 10.

Beniers scored 24 goals and contributed 33 assists in his rookie season, demonstrating his skills across all zones. He also impressed with his readiness to serve as the deep forward in the defensive zone.

Beniers’ exceptional performance across the entire 200-foot NHL ice rink last season demonstrated an exceptional maturity level for a 21-year-old, especially his improved skills in the faceoff circle. His unnoticed efforts attracted attention from several opposing scouts, who suggested that the Kraken center is likely to receive votes for the Selke Trophy as the league’s top defensive forward in future seasons.

Beniers’ production in his sophomore season amounted to 15 goals and 22 assists. A detailed examination reveals that his performance in the latter half of the year mirrored the pace of his rookie season.

GM Francis definitely speaks from a place of authority. As the NHL’s second highest all-time leader in assists, surpassed only by the renowned ‘Great One’, Wayne Gretzky, and a Selke winner himself, the Kraken GM is well-versed in the challenges of excelling in all three zones. Francis had identified the potential in Beniers’ comprehensive 200-foot game early on when the Kraken center was playing U17 for the U.S. National Development Program team. When Beniers was still available as the No. 2 overall pick in the 2021 NHL Draft, Francis, a Hall of Famer and current Kraken GM, was excited to select Beniers as the Kraken’s inaugural draft choice.

“Francis expressed no worries about Matty’s long-term game during a postseason media conference in April. “He will play a significant role in this 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.