Speculation is mounting around a potential trade between the Winnipeg Jets and the Seattle Kraken involving Shane Wright, the fourth overall pick from the 2022 NHL Entry Draft. According to NHL Trade Talk, the Jets have expressed interest in acquiring the young center, with Cole Perfetti's name possibly surfacing in initial discussions.
Elliotte Friedman of 32 Thoughts has corroborated the rumors, stating that Seattle is genuinely open to exploring trade options for Wright. Friedman dismissed the notion that these rumors are agent-driven. He also linked the New York Rangers as a potential destination for Wright, speculating about a possible deal involving Alexis Lafreniere or Artemi Panarin, though he expressed doubt that Panarin would consider a move to Seattle.
The Kraken's motivation for trading Wright stems from their desire to acquire a more established top-six forward who can make an immediate impact. TSN Hockey Insider Darren Dreger noted that the Kraken are looking to capitalize on their depth at the center position to improve their wingers. They are reportedly seeking a top-three or top-six winger in exchange for Wright. David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period reported that the Kraken believe including Wright in a deal could be key to landing a player of that caliber.
Wright's current season has seen him score seven goals and assist 11 in 51 games. He is reportedly seeking a consistent top-six role, which he hasn't consistently found in Seattle. While he had a promising 2024-25 season with 19 goals and 44 points, his development seems to have plateaued under the new coach, Lane Lambert.
From the Jets' perspective, acquiring Wright could provide a long-term solution at the center position. However, trading Perfetti, who has displayed offensive promise, would likely require the Kraken to include a significant addition in the trade to make it worthwhile for Winnipeg. Perfetti has struggled this season, recording only four goals in 37 games.
Despite his high draft pedigree, Wright's NHL performance has been somewhat polarizing, with 69 points in 146 games across four seasons. Once considered a potential first-overall pick, he remains a young center with considerable upside. However, the Kraken may be prioritizing veterans like Chandler Stephenson, which has led to Wright playing in the bottom six and not getting enough minutes, contributing to his unhappiness with his development.
The Kraken, who currently hold a Western Conference wild-card spot, are looking to bolster their roster for a deeper playoff run. General Manager Jason Botterill is reportedly listening to offers for Wright but is not in a rush to make a deal, indicating that the asking price remains high.
Several other teams have also been linked to Wright, including the New York Rangers and Philadelphia Flyers. The Flyers, also in playoff contention, might see Wright as a valuable addition, potentially offering players like Owen Tippett or Bobby Brink in a trade package.
As the trade deadline approaches, the potential deal between the Jets and Kraken remains one to watch. If discussions progress, it could evolve into a significant transaction, but only if the value aligns for both teams.
