Kraken defenseman Carson Soucy’s name has popped up in trade rumours. There’s a simple reason why; he’s an unrestricted free agent this coming summer, presently making $2.75-million pro-rated dollars.
Some might think there could be a deal since Kraken GM Ron Francis could probably pick up a third round NHL Draft pick from a team wanting Soucy’s services. He’s a big physical player and brings some additional depth for a playoff run.
Some might even argue that Jaycob Megna was added on February 5th as a replacement, a guy who makes about $2-million less than Soucy. Megna has a season remaining at a very reasonable price. The former San Jose Shark played against his former team on Monday while Soucy was scratched.
They’re both lefties and similar in another way, they’re very imposing blueliners. Soucy stands 6-foot-5 and 210 pounds while Megna checks in at 6-foot-6 and 220.
Just Say No
Here’s a few reasons why Francis wouldn’t do it.
The Kraken are the 2nd year “little engine that could”, the surprise club in all of the NHL with their excellent identity, mostly consistent play, and what appears to be very sound team chemistry. Why would you mess with that if you’re believing you have a playoff team? Soucy has been a big part of it, having played in 56 games this season. Analytically his numbers aren’t fantastic, but how many third pair guys are owning a lot of puck possession.
Also, if a playoff bid were the real deal, the Kraken are going to need that postseason depth. Why give it someone else? It’s not as though letting a guy walk to free agency when he was making less than three million a year is going to kill you.
In other words, why give up the potential chemistry and that playoff depth for a third rounder. The Kraken already have a load of draft picks the next two summers.
Why Say Yes
Then again, one can never have enough trade/draft assets.
Maybe Francis is clearing that cap room so he can afford an upgrade. Maybe it’s the only way he can add someone else he really wants because he does believe in postseason reality.
It might not be a defenseman, but then again that seems to be the area that makes the most sense. It’s a bit of a toss-up here, adding depth to the D or on the wings would be desirable. Grind-wise, one can never have enough blueliners.
Francis knows. The Hockey Hall of Famer has been through the springtime battles. He’s won two Stanley Cups and has been to one other Final.
He has nine days before the NHL Trade Deadline to decide if he thinks the Kraken are ready for the big dance, and if so, how best to go about attacking it.
