What Happened
According to Sportsnet, Seattle Kraken forward Matty Beniers is embracing an expanded leadership role. An alternate captain for the past two seasons, Beniers has become more vocal, defending the organization this summer after Dallas' Jason Robertson declined a sign-and-trade with Seattle. His lone NHL fight, on March 10 in a 4-2 home loss to Nashville, came after Justin Barron cross-checked teammate Jared McCann hard into the boards.
Key Details
- Beniers was the 2023 NHL Rookie of the Year.
- He has three seasons of 20-plus goals and two with 30-plus assists.
- He has been an alternate captain for the past two seasons.
- He defended Seattle after Jason Robertson nixed a sign-and-trade with the Kraken.
- His only NHL fight came March 10 versus Nashville after Justin Barron cross-checked Jared McCann.
- Defenseman Adam Larsson called the moment huge for the team.
What It Means
Beniers has been the face of the Kraken since arriving in Seattle, helping the franchise reach its only playoff appearance. His willingness to speak up publicly and step in physically for teammates signals a shift from young cornerstone to established leader within the locker room, a role the club has leaned into by keeping him in its leadership group.