Multiple sources are reporting that the Seattle Kraken have their first expansion pick in. By signing defenseman Adam Larsson to a four-year deal with an AAV of $4 million, that’s whom they’ve selected off the Edmonton Oilers.
Further reporting from Frank Seravalli indicates they are also close to signing Stars defenseman, Jamie Oleksiak. Once completed, that would be their selection from Dallas.
We will update here once official.
Seattle Kraken sign Adam Larsson
A lot of talk about how Ron Francis would approach the expansion draft was focused on building from his blue-line out. Adding the 28 year-old Adam Larsson is a clear signal that was correct. This past season for the Oilers he recorded 10 points in 56 games.
The right-handed defender is not considered an offensive type player but can log top four minutes to shut down other top lines. Larsson is probably more famously known for being the one-for-one player from the New Jersey Devils in the lopsided deal for Taylor Hall.
Edmonton has added Duncan Keith via trade and may be looking to retain Tyson Barrie as well.
If the Jamie Oleksiak is signed today as well. He could skate with Larsson on the left side and give the Kraken one of their defense pairings. The 28 year-old rearguard is a big man at 6-7 and 255 lbs. He notched 14 points in 56 games for the Stars.
It was rumored Dallas desperately wanted to sign him this offseason, so this is a big blow for them.
More must-reads: