The Seattle Kraken’s general manager gets to pick 30 players in the expansion draft to build out the roster for the NHL’s 32nd franchise. Building Seattle from scratch is a different kind of challenge and could alter the way Francis manages the situation. SIDE DEALSGeorge McPhee fleeced some colleagues around the league as Vegas’ first GM four years ago, adding prospects and draft picks in a handful of trades around the expansion draft. Maybe it’s a draft pick or another pricey player who could give Seattle a boost and the Lightning some cap relief. Philadelphia exposed Trevor’s brother James van Riemsdyk after a 17-goal, 43-point season, though his $7 million cap hit could scare Francis away, especially if he’s willing to take on other big contracts.

Source: thestar July 18, 2021 17:58 UTC