Matty Beniers, the Seattle Kraken’s centerman, is using the offseason to reshape his physique. He hopes to add eight to ten pounds of lean muscle before August, concentrating the gain in his legs and glutes to translate into faster strides and stronger defensive positioning.
A Calculated Shift in Strategy
With that added power, Beniers intends to adopt a more daring style of play in the upcoming 2026‑27 season, taking extra offensive risks and hunting for more aggressive puck handling that could translate into additional points on the power play.
The previous campaign presented a grueling test of endurance. A relentless travel schedule left the team with little respite, and Beniers felt the physical toll of losing three to four pounds per practice, mostly water weight, as the grueling stretch wore on.
His preparation now follows a structured timeline: bulking in the weight room until early August, then lacing up his skates for on‑ice work. The routine is designed to convert the new mass into skating speed and offensive creativity.
The Kraken’s coaching staff has voiced confidence that Beniers’ physical transformation will unlock new dimensions for Seattle’s attack. If the plan unfolds as intended, the team could see a noticeable lift in scoring, especially during power‑play situations.
Beyond the numbers, Beniers emphasizes a mental shift. He wants to embrace risk, trust his conditioning, and let the extra weight become an asset rather than a burden.