GM Ron Francis Gives Updates On Kraken's Three RFAs

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General Manager Ron Francis gave updates on the Seattle Kraken's three RFAs this offseason.

Matty Beniers, Eeli Tolvanen and Kailer Yamamoto are all in need of contracts but due to their RFA status, the Kraken will have control of what happens.

Alison Lukan spoke to the Krakens GM and he said the team is in discussions with Beniers and Tolvanen but Yamamoto has been granted permission to talk with other teams.

Beniers has been a major talking point for the Kraken all off-season. His importance to the team currently as well as the future is abundantly clear. Deals for restricted free agents can take a bit longer due to the team's control but a deal between the two parties will happen eventually.

Tolvanen was claimed off waivers by the Kraken from the Nashville Predators on Dec. 22, 2022. Since joining he has been an efficient goal-scorer. Last season he scored 16 goals and 41 points in 80 games and did this all playing under 16:00.

The 25-year-old finished his three-year, $1.45M AAV contract this season and could earn up to $3M on his next contract. With the Kraken's struggles to score goals last season, keeping Tolvanen would be a wise decision.

In his first season with the Kraken, Yamamoto was never able to get his game going and struggled all season long. Playing in 59 games, the former 22nd overall pick was only able to pot eight goals and tally 16 points. As the season went on his ice-time continued to diminish and it's no surprise that the team isn't interested in bringing him back.

The 25-year-old will look to kick start his career once again after struggles with both the Edmonton Oilers and the Kraken.

Qualifying offers are due to the three players by June 30 and it's expected that Beniers and Tolvanen will receive QO's while Yamamoto will not.

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