Kraken set to sign Adam Larsson to 4-year contract extension

The Kraken have decided to keep Adam Larsson around, with him reportedly set to sign a new four-year deal which will begin in 2025-26.

Adam Larsson has effectively been with the Kraken since the beginning, after they selected him from the Oilers in the 2021 NHL expansion draft. As it turns out, they’re apparently planning on keeping him in Seattle for a while longer yet.

First reported by Frank Seravalli of the Daily Faceoff, Larsson and the Kraken are set to agree on a four-year contract extension. If all goes as planned, the deal could be finalized as soon as Tuesday.

However, what has really caught the attention of fans, is the proposed amount of the deal. In a follow-up report from Sportsnet‘s Elliotte Friedman, the deal is expected to have an Average Annual Value (AAV) of $5.25 million.

For some context, consider that Larsson’s current deal has a AAV of $4 million, with one season remaining. Now add in his age of 31, and this is why critics will argue the Kraken are paying too much.

Kraken clearly value Larsson

However, it’s all about perception, with the Kraken certainly believing Larsson is worth it. (Of course pending official confirmation of the terms of the contract extension.) In this respect, he’s arguably played the best hockey of his NHL career since arriving in Seattle.

For a start, consider that the Sweden native always puts his heart and soul (and body) into his game. Look no further than him leading the Kraken in blocked shots and hits during his first two seasons in Seattle, and still ranking second and fourth respectively in 2023-24.

Listed at 6 foot 3 and 215 pounds, Larsson is an imposing physical presence and good shutdown defenseman. He’s also durable, as evidenced by being able to log big minutes and only missing one regular season for the Kraken in his three seasons with the team.

The 2011 fourth overall draft pick seems to have risen to the challenge, after being named as an alternate captain. Heck, despite not being much of an offensive force, he even set career highs with 25 assists, 33 total points and a +27 rating just two seasons ago.

• Mariners complete strong road trip but Matt Brash causes concern
• Key Takeaways from Seattle Storm’s Thrilling Preseason Match
• FIFA Empowers Afghan Women Footballers with Historic Regulation Change
• Seahawks 2026 Draft: Analysis of Key Picks and Strategies
• Key Stats from Seattle Storm vs Golden State Valkyries Preseason Clash

Larsson no longer a candidate to be moved

There was some speculation Larsson could be a potential trade candidate ahead of the 2024-25 deadline. However, his contract extension now all but ensures this will no longer be the case.

If the Kraken are to return to the playoffs after a one-season absence, it is crucial that they have strong play from the blue line this coming campaign. Keeping Larsson around should help with this.

Certainly, you can’t accuse the Kraken of standing still after a disappointing 2023-24 campaign. They fired Dave Hakstol and replaced him with Dan Bylsma as head coach, while last month they agreed terms with Matty Beniers on a seven-year, $50 million deal.

What is your take on the importance of Larsson to the Kraken? Is he worth what he will reportedly re-sign for, or is it too much? Let us know in the comments section below.