Seattle Kraken Recall Four Players from Coachella Valley Firebirds
The Seattle Kraken have made a significant roster move by recalling Ben Meyers, Jacob Melanson, Cale Fleury, and Tye Kartye from their AHL affiliate, the Coachella Valley Firebirds. This move comes at a crucial time for the Kraken, as they look to bolster their roster with talented and versatile players. The Firebirds, playing at Acrisure Arena in Palm Desert, California, have been a vital proving ground for these young prospects, allowing them to develop their skills and gain valuable experience.
Ben Meyers: A Consistent Performer in the AHL
Ben Meyers, a 26-year-old forward, has been a frequent traveler between the NHL and AHL this season. While he has yet to record a point in the NHL, his performance in the AHL has been commendable. Meyers leads the Firebirds in goal scoring with 19 goals and has accumulated 40 points in 45 games, placing him second overall among his teammates. His ability to find the back of the net and contribute offensively has made him a key player in the Firebirds’ lineup. The Kraken are hoping that his consistent play in the AHL will translate to the NHL, where he can provide a spark to the team’s offense.
Jacob Melanson: An Emerging Talent
Jacob Melanson, a 21-year-old forward, has faced several challenges this season, primarily due to injuries. Despite skating in only 27 games, he has been effective, using his 6’1, 205 lbs frame to excel on the forecheck. Melanson has contributed seven goals and 10 points to the Firebirds’ cause. Selected in the fifth round of the 2021 draft (131st overall), Melanson is a promising prospect who is on the cusp of making his NHL debut. The recent trade that saw Oliver Bjorkstrand and Yanni Gourde leave the Kraken has opened up roster spots, creating an opportunity for Melanson to potentially break into the NHL ranks. His strong work ethic and physical play make him a valuable addition to the Kraken’s lineup as they look to integrate younger players.
Cale Fleury: A Rising Star in Defense
Cale Fleury, another 26-year-old, has also seen his fair share of time moving between the NHL and AHL. His recognition as an AHL All-Star is a testament to his outstanding performance, although he was unable to attend due to his call-up to the Kraken. Fleury has recorded one assist in seven NHL games, demonstrating his defensive prowess. In the AHL, he has been a dominant force, scoring six goals and 24 points in 36 games while serving as the Firebirds’ No. 1 defenseman. His versatility and strong defensive skills make him a valuable asset, and the Kraken are confident that he can provide depth and stability to their blue line.
Tye Kartye: A Battle for Form
Tye Kartye’s season has not unfolded as expected. In 49 games with the Firebirds, he has managed just four goals and seven points, which is a significant drop from his rookie season. Recently, Kartye was sent to the Firebirds on a conditioning loan, where he recorded two goals and four points in three games. This brief stint has hopefully provided him with the confidence and form he needs to return to the NHL and become an effective player in the Kraken’s bottom six. With the departures of Gourde and the likely move of Brandon Tanev, Kartye is expected to step up and fill the void left by these players. His physical and strong forechecking style will be crucial in maintaining the Kraken’s identity as a hard-hitting, gritty team.
Kraken’s Roster Adjustments and Future Prospects
The Kraken’s roster adjustments are part of a broader strategy to develop and integrate young talent. The trade that saw the departure of Gourde, Bjorkstrand, and a fifth-round pick to the Tampa Bay Lightning in exchange for two first-round picks, a second-round pick, and forward Michael Eyssimont has created space for these young players to shine. The Kraken are committed to building a strong foundation through their prospects, and the recalls of Meyers, Melanson, Fleury, and Kartye are a clear indication of their faith in the future of the organization. These players will not only bring energy and skill to the NHL roster but also contribute to the team’s long-term success.
Striving for Excellence: Jani Nyman’s Achievement
Adding to the excitement surrounding the Kraken’s prospects is the recent achievement of Jani Nyman, a Seattle Kraken prospect and Coachella Valley Firebirds defenseman. Nyman has been named the AHL’s rookie of the month for February, a well-deserved honor that highlights his exceptional play and potential. This recognition is a testament to the Firebirds’ development system and the Kraken’s ability to cultivate young talent. As the Kraken continue to focus on the future, Nyman’s performance provides a glimmer of hope and an example for other prospects to follow.
