Seattle Kraken forward Alex Wennberg was noticeably absent during the team’s recent game against the Calgary Flames. Speculation arose regarding a potential trade, as Wennberg did not participate in the morning skate. Coach Dave Hakstol later confirmed that Wennberg’s absence was indeed due to “trade-related issues.” This situation has put Wennberg’s future with the Kraken in question, especially considering his impending status as an unrestricted free agent.
A Closer Look at Wennberg
At 29 years old, Alex Wennberg is currently in the final season of a three-year, $13.5 million contract with the Seattle Kraken. Throughout his career, Wennberg has played for various teams including the Columbus Blue Jackets, the Florida Panthers, and the Kraken. With 25 points (nine goals, 16 assists) in 60 games this season, Wennberg has proven to be a valuable asset on the ice. Known for his exceptional passing skills and offensive capabilities, Wennberg possesses a high hockey IQ and is a reliable penalty killer. However, the discrepancy between his analytics and actual production has been a consistent issue throughout his career.
As the NHL trade deadline approaches on Friday at 3 p.m. ET, the Seattle Kraken find themselves nine points out of the final wild-card spot in the Western Conference. This puts them in a challenging position as they weigh their options regarding potential trades, including the possibility of parting ways with Wennberg. Despite his skill set and potential impact on a contending team, Wennberg’s future with the Kraken remains uncertain. The decision to trade him could potentially benefit both parties, allowing Wennberg to thrive in a new environment while providing the Kraken with valuable assets in return.
While Wennberg may have struggled to fully translate his analytics into tangible results, the right team could unlock his full potential. Given his playmaking abilities and overall experience in the league, Wennberg has the opportunity to make a significant impact on a playoff-bound team. His versatility as a player, coupled with his unique skill set, could make him a coveted asset as the trade deadline approaches. As the Kraken continue to evaluate their roster and make tough decisions, Wennberg’s future in Seattle hangs in the balance.
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