The Seattle Kraken have acquired forward Mackie Samoskevich from the Florida Panthers in exchange for the 25th overall pick in the upcoming NHL draft and a second-round selection in 2025, the teams announced Sunday.
Samoskevich, 23, brings a blend of speed, skill and offensive potential to the Kraken, who have missed the playoffs four times in their five seasons since entering the league. Over 160 regular season and playoff games, he has accumulated 64 points. The restricted free agent is expected to require a new contract with Seattle.
“Mackie is a talented young player who we are excited to bring into the fold,” said Kraken general manager Jason Botterill. “He has speed, skill and scoring ability. A Stanley Cup champion with the Panthers in 2025, Mackie’s a player who can contribute offensively and add a spark to our lineup.”
The Panthers, reigning back-to-back Stanley Cup champions in 2024 and 2025, traded Samoskevich as part of a roster retooling following a season hampered by injuries. The 25th overall pick included in the deal was originally owned by the Tampa Bay Lightning through a previous trade, while the second-round choice will be the higher of picks between the Winnipeg Jets and Columbus Blue Jackets.
Selected 24th overall in the 2021 NHL draft, Samoskevich developed his game at the University of Michigan, where he played alongside fellow new Kraken forward Matty Beniers. The move aims to bolster Seattle’s offensive depth as the team looks to reverse its recent fortunes and secure a playoff berth.
