The Seattle Kraken have signed their first-ever draft pick, Matty Beniers, to a seven-year contract extension worth $7.14 million annually. Beniers, the Calder Trophy winner as the NHL's top rookie in 2022-23, recorded 24 goals and 57 points in his rookie season but experienced a decline to 15 goals and 37 points last season. Despite this, the Kraken see Beniers as a cornerstone of the franchise, with General Manager Ron Francis emphasizing his importance both on and off the ice. Beniers made his NHL debut late in the Kraken's inaugural season and has since cemented his role as the team's top center. The new contract secures Beniers' place with the Kraken through the 2030-31 season, reflecting the team's confidence in his potential to contribute to future successes.