Two recommendations likely to come out of the audit promised by Seattle Kraken CEO Tod Leiweke: more front-office boldness off the ice, more goal-scoring punch on it.
Combining those two could land right wing Brock Boeser, who’s played his entire 10-year career with the Vancouver Canucks. Before the March trade deadline, Boeser said he’s be willing to waive his no-movement clause, according to Bleacher Report’s Lyle Richardson.
“Long-time (Kraken) winger Jaden Schwartz and trade-deadline acquisition Bobby McMann could depart via free agency this summer,” Richardson points out. “Winger Jared McCann’s production has dropped since his career-best 40-goal performance in 2022-23.”
Boeser, who has 21 goals and 45 points this season, has averaged 29 goals per 82 games over his career. He will have six years remaining on a contract with an average annual value of $7.3 million.
“With $29.3 million in projected cap space for next season,” says Richardson, “(the Kraken) have the space to take on his contract if Schwartz and McCann aren’t re-signed. He would be a good fit alongside a young center like Matty Beniers or Shane Wright.”
A pro for Boeser: He’s American and there’s no state income tax in Washington, although for now there will be a “millionaire’s tax” starting in 2029. A potential con for Vancouver would be trading within the division, although that seems to take on less importance these days.
Kraken Would Have To Part With Pick(s), Prospect(s)
What would it take to pry the 29-year-old Burnsville, Minn. native from Vancouver? “The Kraken carry two first-round picks in each of the next two drafts to draw on for trade bait. They could also dangle a promising youngster such as Berkly Catton, Jake O’Brien, or Jagger Firkus.”
Seattle might be put off by Boeser’s plus-minus of -45, the worst mark for any player in the league. On the dysfunctional, last-in-the-league Canucks, though, it’s also understandable – and a reason Boeser might be open to a new location. (Defenseman Vince Dunn is -25 for Seattle. You wouldn’t kick him off your team, would you?)
The Hockey Writers laud Boeser as “a playmaker” with “meaningful skill” who they label a “top-six forward.”
Off the ice, The Province’s Patrick Johnston calls Boeser, “One of the good guys. From the moment he was drafted, stories abounded of the good deeds he’s done: his interest in rescue dogs, the time he took a superfan to prom, his support for Parkinson’s research, his regular visits to B.C. Children’s Hospital.
“He’s the Canucks’ 2026 nominee for the King Clancy Trophy, which recognizes community work by the league’s players.”
In an official team video interview, Boeser said this about the nomination. “I’m grateful I can be in this league and make a difference in people’s lives.”
The Kraken now have to figure out if the winger can make a difference for them.
(Editor’s Chirp: Boeser is likely on the cusp of diminishing returns. The question is, when do they truly kick in for the 29-year-old, and/or would a change of scenery do him good. The Canucks wouldn’t mind getting rid of the contract. He’s a second or third line player on a contender, so that might fit over the time span, but I’d be very careful with what I gave up. Definitely not Catton or a high pick, especially since you’re probably doing VAN a favor/favour. As for personality; from my personal one-on-one experience, he is indeed a nice guy to the point of inspiration.)
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