The Seattle Kraken acquired Mason Marchment from the Dallas Stars in exchange for a 2025 fourth-round pick and a 2026 third-round pick, the team announced last Thursday.
The 30-year-old winger already knows what playoff hockey looks like at Climate Pledge Arena. Marchment played in the 2023 second-round series when Dallas faced Seattle.
“It was awesome. For sure, the fan base sticks out instantly. It was rocking in there for three games. It was a hard building to play in, too. So, it’s going to be fun to be on the other side of it.”
Dallas won that series in seven games, but Marchment experienced Seattle’s playoff atmosphere firsthand.
Marchment tied a career high with 22 goals last season. He’s entering the final year of a contract with a $4.5 million cap hit. The salary cap constraints partly motivated Dallas to trade him despite three seasons remaining on his four-year deal.
The Uxbridge, Ontario native spent the first half of his six-season NHL career with Toronto and Florida. He wasn’t bothered by the trade.
“It’s a business and I get that. I’ve been in it my whole life. So, there had to be some changes, and it just so happened to be me. I don’t take it as a knock at all. There’s teams out there that want you, so it’s always a good thing.”
Marchment said Tuesday via Zoom that he’s excited to start fresh in Seattle.
New Direction Under Lambert
The Kraken fired head coach Dan Bylsma after one season and hired Lane Lambert as his replacement. Under Lambert, Seattle expects to make the playoffs and play a grittier style.
Marchment could fill a reliable top-six scoring role. He enjoys forechecking and backchecking duties.
“That’s stuff that I take pride in and like to do well. So, if I can help out that way, it’s going to be great. But getting to the net front and getting in the goalie’s eyes, that’s huge. So stuff like that, small things like that are things that help win games and help you get (to) the playoffs.”
His line assignment isn’t clear yet with training camp months away.
Brandon Montour has been helping Marchment learn about Seattle’s roster. The defenseman played with Marchment in Florida.
Marchment is also getting familiar with his new city. Seattle will be home rather than just a road trip stop.
“I’m definitely excited to get down there and meet everyone. But for me, it’s going to be a fresh opportunity and a good start, and that’s always exciting. So, I’m looking forward to that, and hopefully we can get better as a team and make the playoffs.”
The Kraken haven’t reached the playoffs since their 2022-23 season when they lost to Dallas in the second round.
