Seattle Kraken re-sign forward John Hayden to two-year deal
SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - MARCH 31: John Hayden #15 of the Seattle Kraken checks Colin Blackwell #15 of the Dallas Stars during the first period of a game at Climate Pledge Arena on March 31, 2025 in Seattle, Washington. (Christopher Mast / NHLI / Getty Images)
SEATTLE - The Seattle Kraken have re-signed forward John Hayden to a two-year, one-way contract worth $775,000 in AAV, the team announced on Wednesday.
Hayden, 30, has spent the last three seasons in the Kraken organization, appearing in 29 games for the team with 20 coming last season. A nine-year NHL veteran with Seattle, Buffalo, Arizona, New Jersey and Chicago, Hayden has appeared in 269 career games with 18 goals and 21 assists for 39 points.
"John has been an important player in our organization over the past three seasons, making an impact at both the NHL and AHL level," Kraken general manager Jason Botterill said in a statement. "He’s a strong leader who brings a terrific work ethic and physical presence. We’re excited to have him in our organization for the next two years."
Hayden is a well-respected presence and a solid fourth line option that can play both center and on the wing. He also brings a physical element to his game with 31 penalty minutes in his 20 games with Seattle last season.
With the Kraken already having three centers in place in Matty Beniers, Chandler Stephenson and Shane Wright, Hayden gives Seattle an option to center the fourth line at a minimum salary. He's not going to be a point producer, but he's a solid, versatile grinder that can be a valuable asset.
Hayden was one of just three unrestricted free agents at the NHL level from Seattle's roster along with Mikey Eyssimont and defenseman Joshua Mahura. Kaapo Kakko, Tye Kartye and Ryker Evans are restricted free agents for the Kraken.
The Source: Information in this story came from the Seattle Kraken and FOX 13 Seattle reporting.
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