Seattle’s front office has doubled down on a simple premise for the upcoming campaign: more shots, more goals. The team finished the 2025‑26 season ranked 26th in shot attempts and goals scored, a statistic that has driven a concerted effort to reshape the offense.
Shoot First, Ask Later
Coach Lane Lambert has instituted a ‘shoot first’ philosophy, urging every line to prioritize getting the puck on net before worrying about possession. New addition Mackie Samoskevich embraces the approach, describing his own game as built around a relentless love for shooting.
Center Matty Beniers, already recognized for his playmaking, plans to amplify his offensive output by taking more shots himself. He believes that increasing his shot volume will not only boost his personal numbers but also open up space for his teammates.
Two‑Way Potential and Power Play Revamp
Analyst Shayna Goldman sees a clear path for Beniers to evolve into an elite two‑way player, drawing a comparison to Patrice Bergeron’s blend of offensive skill and defensive reliability. Goldman notes that Beniers’ defensive puck touches and ability to retrieve loose pucks already reflect Selke‑caliber instincts.
The Kraken’s power play could benefit from quicker puck movement and a higher shot rate, a strategy that aligns with the broader ‘shoot first’ directive. By integrating more shooting into their unit, the team hopes to convert more chances and relieve pressure on the penalty kill.
Beyond statistics, the shift represents a cultural change: players are being encouraged to trust their shot, take responsibility for scoring, and contribute defensively without sacrificing offensive ambition. If Beniers can cement his role as both a goal‑producer and a shutdown center, Seattle could see a noticeable jump in its overall competitiveness.