The Seattle Kraken announced the selection of Chase Reid as the No. 7 overall pick in the 2026 NHL Entry Draft, cementing his status as one of the most coveted defensive prospects in the draft class.
A Defensive Anchor in the Making
Standing at 6‑foot‑2 and weighing 195 pounds, Reid is a right‑shot defenseman whose physical presence and skating ability are expected to translate well to the professional game. His size and shot make him a natural fit for a first‑line defensive role, and the Kraken envision him as a power‑play quarterback who can orchestrate the offense from the blue line.
Reid will begin his collegiate career at Michigan State University during the 2026‑27 season, a move that aligns with the program’s recent emphasis on developing NHL‑ready talent. Coaches at the university have highlighted his ability to read the game and make quick, decisive plays, traits that should allow him to contribute immediately on both even‑strength and special‑teams situations.
Before entering the draft, Reid spent four seasons with the Soo Greyhounds of the Ontario Hockey League, where he recorded 25 goals and 63 assists in 84 games. His 88 total points placed him among the top offensive contributors for the team, underscoring his capacity to generate offense while maintaining a strong defensive posture.
A native of Chesterfield, Michigan, Reid grew up in a community that has produced several notable hockey players. His early development on local rinks laid the groundwork for his later success in the OHL and now, the professional ranks.