Now that the 2021 NHL regular season has drawn to a close, it is time to look ahead to the 2021 Stanley Cup playoffs and the upcoming offseason.
Just last week the ownership group of the Seattle Kraken paid $650m to officially become the NHL’s 32nd franchise.
Having now made their final expansion payment, the Seattle Kraken are free to participate in the upcoming NHL draft, make trades and sign players prior to their debut season in the National Hockey League.
In what has been a historic fortnight for the Kraken, Seattle recently signed their first player in franchise history, 21 year old Luke Henman. However, this is not Henman’s first encounter with an NHL franchise. The Carolina Hurricanes drafted Henman in the fourth round of the 2018 NHL Entry Draft, but he did not sign.
Henman has been a member of the Blainville-Boisbriand Armada in the Quebec Major Juniors Hockey League since 2016. He was named captain of the Armada for the 2019-20 season. At just 20 years of age, the elevation to a leadership position had a positive impact on Henman, as he set career highs in goals (25), assists (49) and points (74) in 63 games.
first #SeaKraken player in the books ✍️📝 pic.twitter.com/QgPotU8STU
— Seattle Kraken (@SeattleKraken) May 13, 2021
In his second season as captain, Henman has tallied 16 goals, 27 assists and 43 points in the shortened 32 game season. He was Blainville-Boisbriand’s leading scorer in the 2020-21 regular season.
Although he is currently in the midst of a playoff series in the QMJHL, Henman signed a two way contract with the Seattle Kraken on May 12th. His three year, entry-level contract makes him the first player ever to be signed by the Seattle Kraken in the history of the franchise.
“I am super-excited and honored. I have a belief in my game. My main focus will be to put in the work to get better … I can’t thank them enough for believing in me. Now it’s up to me to prove I belong”, said Henman.
The 2021 Stanley Cup playoffs are now underway! If you want to catch up with all the latest news, information and picks make sure you visit our NHL hub page.
Image: Rob Masefield
