The Seattle Kraken made waves last night by securing forward Ryan Winterton with a two-year contract extension, valued at $1.125 million per season. This move prevents Winterton from hitting restricted free agency at season's end and gives him a solid raise from his current $828,000 entry-level deal. The news of Winterton’s extension came alongside that of his teammate, Ben Meyers.
Drafted in the third round during Seattle's inaugural 2021 draft, Winterton has turned heads with his potential as a strong bottom-six forward. At 6'2", the 22-year-old has consistently delivered, racking up at least 35 points in each of his two AHL seasons. This year, he’s become a regular fixture in the lineup, tallying 15 points over 54 games, while only missing two contests.
Back in August, Steven Ellis of The Fourth Period ranked Winterton as the Kraken’s ninth-best prospect. As Seattle navigates its path to becoming a competitive force, the team has started to cultivate a promising group of young talents, with Winterton playing a key role in this emerging core.
While Winterton's development continues, his possession metrics at even strength have shown significant improvement from last season's -11 in just 12 games to a positive rating across 54 games this year. As a penalty killer in the bottom six, his speed and puck-handling skills are assets under Head Coach Lane Lambert.
With this extension, Winterton is set to remain with the Kraken through the 2027-28 season, where he will still be under team control. Expectations are high for his continued growth, as he aims to solidify his place in Seattle’s lineup.