The Seattle Kraken made a notable selection at the 2026 NHL Draft, choosing Chase Reid with the seventh overall pick, marking the franchise’s inaugural first‑round defenseman selection.
A Milestone for the Franchise
Reid, a right‑shot blueliner who spent the previous season with the OHL’s Soo Greyhounds, distinguished himself as the league’s most prolific offensive defenseman among eligible prospects, topping the draft‑eligible group in goals, points and points per game.
The Greyhounds’ coaching staff recognized his two‑way impact, naming him the Western Conference’s top offensive defenseman and, in the coaches’ poll, the second‑best defensive defenseman overall.
Analysts had widely projected Reid to be taken higher than seventh, making the Kraken’s acquisition a surprise that reflects the team’s willingness to prioritize upside and offensive upside from the back end.
College Commitment and Future Outlook
Reid will begin the next chapter of his career at Michigan State University, where he intends to refine his game within a premier NCAA program, a move the Kraken view as the optimal environment for his continued growth.
The decision to join Michigan State underscores Reid’s ambition to compete at the highest collegiate level while maintaining a direct pathway to the NHL, a path the Kraken’s player development staff have mapped out for him.
As the Kraken look ahead to the 2026‑27 season, the addition of Reid adds a layer of depth to their defensive corps, suggesting a strategic shift toward building a more dynamic, offense‑oriented blue line.