The Seattle Kraken have signed one of their defencemen of the future today. Ryker Evans signs an extension to show that, not only the team, but also himself, believes his future and the team’s success. It is a two-year deal, with an average annual value of $2.05 million.
Seattle Kraken Young Defenceman Ryker Evans Signs an Extension Today
Evans is a 23-year-old, coming off of his entry-level contract. The Calgary native, who played his junior hockey with the WHL’s Regina Pats, is no slouch to being thrust into high-leverage situations. That really is superb development for a young NHL defenceman.
In 2024-25, Evans played 19:29 a night, and registered five goals and added 20 assists in 73 games. He was getting a taste of both specialty teams, but not enough power play time to truly boost his offensive output. He could be setting up for a big 2025-26. Furthermore, that could really benefit not just him personally, but the Kraken’s bit at a 2026 NHL Stanley Cup post-season bid.
What Has Been Going On in the Pacific Northwest this Offseason
As Ryker Evans signs, the Seattle Kraken in 2024-25 went through some growing pains as an organization. They struggle to emulate the success the Vegas Golden Knights have experienced as an expansion team, earlier in their existence. However, where we are going with this for Evans, is as a young defenceman, on a developing team, it is anticipated he would struggle. The team even tried pairing him with one of the top defenders, Brandon Montour, to little success. However, you’d have to think the learning and development for Evans will turn out to invaluable down the road. And based on what he’s shown at the NHL level thus far, the long road.
General manager Jason Botterill, who’s sister is a recent Hall-of-Fame inductee (Jennifer Botterill), has had a very underrated offseason. Mason Marchment and Joe Veleno are no slouches in terms of potential, when it comes to injecting your lineup with life. The club is hoping for a bounce back season, and Evans is likewise, a big part of that, potentially.
Main Photo Credit: Steven Bisig-Imagn Images
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