The Seattle Kraken's youth movement begins in 2025-26, which means there will be several opportunities for young Kraken prospects to make their NHL debuts.
With injuries, poor performances and the high likelihood of veterans being moved at the 2026 trade deadline, the Kraken could witness more than five debutants, but these are the five prospects with the greatest chance of making their debuts this season.
Berkly Catton, Center
Catton is the most proven and also the most NHL-ready prospect the Kraken have in their pool. Catton has dominated the WHL in the past two seasons, notching over 100 points in each. Heading into the new season, Catton has two options: return to the Spokane Chiefs or play in the NHL.
Catton is determined to make the NHL roster, but that doesn't mean it's best for his development. What's most logical is that the 19-year-old is given every opportunity to prove himself in the pre-season and then plays nine games in the NHL before the first year his entry-level contract burns.
If he impresses and shows he fits, he'll remain with the big club; if not, he'll return to the WHL, where he is far too skilled to play in.
Jagger Firkus, Right Wing
Firkus might be the most gifted winger on the Coachella Valley Firebirds, but he needs to continue to improve at playing at a higher pace and on the defensive side of the puck. If his second AHL season starts quickly and he shows that his skill can lead to production, Firkus could earn a call-up later in the NHL season.
The Firebirds will roster a very young lineup, and although he has little experience in the AHL, he'll be depended upon to produce offense.
Ryan Winterton and Jacob Melanson have earned call-ups previously and are higher in the pecking order, but Firkus' offensive abilities could move him up.
Carson Rehkopf, Left Wing
After Catton, Rehkopf might be the most NHL-ready prospect the Kraken have. Standing 6-foot-2, 201 pounds, Rehkopf's frame is ready, and his game suits the NHL. He possesses a great shot and has playmaking instincts that will translate well to the NHL.
His skating and two-way ability are also traits that could elevate his game in his rookie season in the AHL. Last year, Jani Nyman earned a call-up to the NHL following the trade deadline, and Rehkopf can do the same if he impresses and produces.
Eduard Sale, Left Wing
The Kraken's first-round pick (20th overall) in 2023 has been inconsistent since he was drafted. He's had flashes of offensive production, dominating the World Juniors and the OHL playoffs in 2024, but he's also had spells where he is unable to be a factor.
His rookie season in the AHL witnessed him notch six goals and 21 points in 51 games. A decent campaign for a 19-year-old, but the expectations were higher for Sale. If he finds his footing quickly next year, the Kraken could benefit from allowing Sale to get his feet wet in the NHL.
Andrei Loshko, Right Wing
Loshko, like Rehkopf, is entering his first season in the AHL, but his frame and track record could be worthy of at least one game in the NHL. Listed at 6-foot-1, Loshko recorded three consecutive seasons of point-per-game production in the QMJHL and the OHL. Last season, the 20-year-old scored 34 goals and 70 points in the OHL.
Loshko played one game in the AHL at the end of the season, scoring two goals. His scoring ability could be valued in a stint in the NHL.
Source link
