The Seattle Kraken struggled to score last season, finishing 29th out of 32 teams while averaging just 2.61 goals per game. To help remedy the issue, the team signed center Chandler Stephenson and defenseman Brandon Montour in free agency.
Although those signings were big moves for the young franchise, they failed to address the team’s need for a player who can consistently score 20-plus goals per season. Stephenson has scored 20-plus goals once in his 10-year career (in 2020-21) while Montour has never scored more than 16 goals in a season during his 10-year career.
Here are three forwards on the trade block who Seattle could target to add firepower to their offense:
Trevor Zegras | Anaheim Ducks
A four-year veteran, Zegras would bring the wow factor the Kraken lack. He recorded 60-plus points in both his second and third seasons in the NHL, proving that he has what it takes to be a high-impact forward. He only played in six games last season for the Ducks after suffering a broken ankle in Jan. 2024.
Back in June, The Athletic’s senior NHL columnist Pierre LeBrun noted that the Ducks are listening to offers on Zegras, with the Montreal Canadiens mentioned as a team that had expressed interest.
Zegras would pair well with either Vince Dunn or Montour, offensive-minded defensemen who have the skill set to complement his presence near the net.
Patrik Laine | Columbus Blue Jackets
Winger Patrick Laine, an elite goal scorer who has netted 30 or more goals three times, could be an intriguing target, too.
Laine missed all but 18 games of the 2023-24 season with a broken clavicle, an injury he suffered Dec. 14 against the Toronto Maple Leafs. Laine has also been in the NHL/NHLPA player assistance program for help with his well-being and mental health. On July 26, doctors cleared him to return.
The Athletic’s Aaron Portzline reported near the end of July that Columbus could proceed with trade talks for Laine. Portzline noted that Blue Jackets GM Don Waddell indicated that he would prefer to trade Laine for a roster player, without retaining a part of his salary.
A trade for Laine wouldn’t be easy, but it might be worth it for Seattle. Stepping away from a rebuilding Columbus team for new scenery might do the forward some good.
Nick Robertson | Toronto Maple Leafs
The 22-year-old has the skills to become a top-six forward. Seattle could lean into its youth movement by bringing in Robertson, who had a career year in 2023-24, recording 14 goals and 27 points in 56 games.
NHL insider Chris Johnston of The Athletic has reported Robertson told the Maple Leafs that he wants to be traded.
