Jake Oettinger admits painful truth on Mason Marchment's $18M trade to Kraken

The Dallas Stars entered the offseason facing cap pressure and tough roster decisions, but Jake Oettinger's emotional reaction to Mason Marchment's $18 million trade to the Seattle Kraken shows that some moves cut far deeper than just contracts and draft picks.

Goaltender Jake Oettinger admitted the loss wasn't just about roster shuffling or cap management. For him, it was personal, as Marchment was more than a teammate, he was one of his closest friends.

Dallas moved Marchment to the Seattle Kraken on June 19 in exchange for a 2025 fourth-round pick and a 2026 third-rounder, ending his tenure just three years into a four-year, $18 million contract signed back in 2022.

Jake Oettinger calls Mason Marchment more than just a teammate

In a candid moment, Oettinger described the impact of the trade on his personal life.

"That was really tough. It's no secret how close he and I are. That's one you never really get over. Mush is one of my best friends, and that's not going to change."

The goaltender also pointed out how connected their families had become.

"My wife and his wife are like best friends, and they're having a baby really close to when we are, too. That whole part of it just sucks. It feels like right when I start calling someone my best friend, they get traded."

Marchment now joins a Seattle roster in transition after parting ways with coach Dan Bylsma. Meanwhile, Dallas also made a bench change, moving on from Pete DeBoer after another Western Conference Final loss to the Edmonton Oilers.

Glen Gulutzan now takes over in his second stint, tasked with rebuilding chemistry in a locker room still adjusting.

As Bolavip reported, Oettinger's honesty shows how roster moves affect players beyond the ice. It's a reminder that trades aren't just about contracts and picks, but about friendships and lives.

Personally, I think this side of the story makes fans appreciate the human cost of the business even more.