Seattle Kraken Signal They're Ready to Spend - and the League Is Taking Notice
The Seattle Kraken may be one of the NHL’s newest franchises, but they’re already making moves like a team that’s been around for decades. According to recent insights from 32 Thoughts: The Podcast, the Kraken made a serious push for Artemi Panarin - and not just a casual inquiry.
We’re talking big money, big intentions. Even though the deal didn’t come together, the message was loud and clear: Seattle is willing to pay for star power.
What’s striking here is the context. The Kraken didn’t need to make that kind of offer.
This wasn’t a desperate swing; it was a calculated move aimed at a player they viewed as truly special. And that’s what makes this so telling.
Teams around the league now know that Seattle isn’t just dipping its toes into the deep end - they’re ready to dive in headfirst if the right opportunity comes along.
So what happens next? Now that the word is out, agents and GMs alike are going to be lining up to pitch their stars to Seattle.
“Hey, maybe this guy is your next special player.” That’s the kind of attention the Kraken are going to start drawing.
Whether it’s this season or down the road, Seattle has made it clear: they’re open for business, and they’re not afraid to open the checkbook.
Columbus Blue Jackets: Buyers or Sellers? The Deadline Dilemma
The Columbus Blue Jackets are suddenly back in the playoff picture - and that’s thrown a wrench into their trade deadline plans.
Not long ago, it looked like Columbus might be heading toward a familiar role: deadline sellers. With several pending unrestricted free agents on the roster, the expectation was they’d look to stockpile picks and prospects.
But now? Things have shifted.
The Blue Jackets have clawed their way back into the playoff race, and decisions that once seemed obvious are now anything but.
Take Charlie Coyle, for instance. The veteran center is having a season that’s turning heads around the league.
If he hits the open market on July 1st, there’s going to be serious competition for his services. Columbus could likely fetch a strong return if they chose to move him now - we’re talking a “boatload,” as insiders put it.
But with the team trending upward, the front office has a real decision to make. Do they sell high and plan for the future? Or do they hold onto key pieces, reward the locker room, and give fans a genuine playoff push?
It’s a tough call. Boone Jenner and Mason Marchment are also in the mix, and their futures could hinge on how the next few weeks play out.
When Columbus brought in Rick Bowness, the idea was to re-establish a competitive identity. Now that they’ve got some momentum, the pressure is on to decide whether to stay the course or cash in.
Los Angeles Kings: Center Stage for Ken Holland’s Next Move
Over in Los Angeles, the Kings are in a different kind of spotlight - and all eyes are on GM Ken Holland as he works to address a glaring need down the middle.
The Kings are in the thick of the playoff hunt, both in the wild card race and within the Pacific Division. But if there’s one area that needs shoring up, it’s at center. Holland’s next big move is clear: find a pivot who can make an impact now and into the spring.
This isn’t just about roster construction. It’s about sending a message. The Kings have built a roster that can compete, and with the postseason within reach, there’s a real opportunity to reward the fanbase and the players who’ve gotten them this far.
The question is whether Holland pulls the trigger at the deadline or waits for the offseason. Either way, the need is there, the window is open, and the Kings know they can’t afford to stand pat.
Bottom Line
Whether it’s Seattle signaling they’re ready to spend, Columbus navigating the murky waters between buying and selling, or Los Angeles plotting their next move at center, the NHL’s trade landscape is heating up fast. With the Olympic break looming and the deadline approaching, decisions made in the next few weeks could define the direction of multiple franchises - not just for this season, but for years to come.