Kraken Deal For Talented Forward Matthew Wood
NHL.com • • sports
Key Points:
- The Seattle Kraken acquired 6-foot-4 power forward Matthew Wood from the Nashville Predators in exchange for Shane Wright, aiming to strengthen their offensive lineup during their best start in franchise history.
- Wood, a versatile 21-year-old former first-round pick (No. 15 overall, 2023), had a strong rookie season with 17 goals and 30 points, and is expected to initially play right wing for the Kraken.
- The trade addresses the Kraken’s need for bigger forwards and additional scoring depth after losing winger Jared McCann to a long-term injury.
- Shane Wright, the Kraken’s 2022 first-round pick (No. 4 overall), has seen a decline in production over the past two seasons, scoring 12 goals and 27 points last year compared to 19 goals and 44 points in his rookie campaign.
- Kraken GM Jason Botterill highlighted Wood’s hockey sense, shot, and scoring ability as key attributes that fit well with the team’s core of talented young players in their early-to-mid-20s.
