Seattle’s Kraken have signed 23‑year‑old forward Mackie Samoskevich in a trade for the No. 25 pick in the 2026 NHL draft and a second‑rounder next year. The deal gives the franchise a fresh offensive spark after four straight playoff misses and a chance to rebuild their roster around a player who already tasted a Cup.

Samoskevich, who tallied 64 points in 160 games, joined the Panthers after being drafted 24th overall in 2021. His speed, skill and scoring touch made him a key contributor for a team that captured back‑to‑back titles in 2024 and 2025 before injuries derailed the season. The trade also clears cap space for the Panthers as they retool their lineup.

General manager Jason Botterill praised Samoskevich’s potential, noting his “speed, skill and scoring ability” and his 2025 Stanley Cup championship with Florida. The Kraken now own a player who can immediately contribute offensively while the Panthers look to rebuild around future draft picks. This move signals a shift toward youth and offensive production in Seattle’s lineup.

By trading a future first‑round pick and a second‑rounder, Seattle gains a proven scorer, while Florida secures draft capital to address depth after a season riddled with injuries. The trade also clears cap space for the Panthers, allowing them to pursue veteran talent in free agency. The Kraken’s new acquisition positions them to contend for a playoff berth, ending a five‑year drought.