Seattle Kraken Eyeing Bobby McMann Extension; Canucks Weighing UFA Overpayments & Goalie Strategy

The Seattle Kraken Eye Bobby McMann Extension

Bobby McMann has been a revelation for the Seattle Kraken since his acquisition, boasting an impressive 7 goals and 4 assists in just 8 games. This immediate impact has reportedly led the Kraken to express a desire to retain the forward. While discussions are still in the preliminary stages, it's clear McMann has found an excellent fit in Seattle. Prior contract talks with his former team, the Maple Leafs, did not progress significantly, but the Kraken are now keen to explore an extension with their productive new player.

Vancouver Canucks Consider Overpaying UFAs on Short-Term Deals

The Vancouver Canucks are reportedly exploring a strategic approach to bolster their roster by signing experienced, hardworking unrestricted free agents (UFAs) to short-term contracts. The primary objectives are to enhance team culture, provide mentorship to younger players, and potentially transform these players into valuable trade assets for future seasons (e.g., 2028 or 2029 trade deadlines).

This strategy could involve offering "overpayments" on two-year deals that include limited no-trade clauses. Potential targets among forwards include Michael McCarron, Colton Sissons, and Beck Malenstyn. For right-shot defensemen, Jacob Trouba, Connor Murphy, and Darren Raddysh are being considered. Proposed salary ranges for these two-year offers could be $8-10 million AAV for the defensemen and $3.5-4 million AAV for the forwards, representing a significant increase over their current salaries to entice them away from longer-term options elsewhere. Should these players be traded in two years, the Canucks would likely need to retain 50% of their salaries.

Canucks' Goaltending Strategy to Protect Tolopilo

In another potential roster move, the Vancouver Canucks might opt to carry three goaltenders next season. This decision would primarily aim to prevent losing Nikita Tolopilo to waivers. Complicating matters, the team's established netminders, Thatcher Demko and Kevin Lankinen, both hold full no-move clauses, limiting the Canucks' flexibility in managing their goalie situation.