2023-08-31 20:15:58

Seattle Kraken forward Andre Burakovsky has visited the infirmary too often for his liking in recent years and general manager Ron Francis hopes his troubles are a thing of the past.

The 28-year-old hockey player wants to be a reliable element on offense when he is in top form. However, this has rarely been the case since the 2022 playoffs. At the time with the Colorado Avalanche, he had distinguished himself in the Stanley Cup final despite a broken ankle. Then, on his first campaign with the Kraken, a groin tear ruined his plans in February; before falling in combat, he had amassed 39 points in 49 games.

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Burakovsky also had 61 points in 82 games in the 2021-22 season and if he keeps up that pace, Seattle might surprise once more in the Pacific Division. Last year, the club not only made the playoffs, but defeated the Avs in the first round and forced the Dallas Stars to seven games in the second round. If the winger had played, perhaps his formation would have continued on its way, according to the GM.

“He was our leading scorer when he got sidelined. Thus, we hope that it will return to the level of yesteryear, recently declared Francis to the daily “Seattle Times”. It’s tough to score at this time of year, but here’s a guy who can pull off an individual play and give you a goal, whether it’s on the power play or even strength, thanks to his arsenal of skills .”

“He has the ability to pull that off, with his shooting and his talent. So, did we miss him? Oh yeah.”

A winner

The former Washington Capitals is a two-time Cup winner, having lifted the trophy for the first time in the spring of 2018. His current employer and the poolers who will select him this year are crossing their fingers that his production will be at the height of its reputation. In the American Northwest, senior management let go of Daniel Sprong, Morgan Geekie and Ryan Donato, who racked up 101 points last regular season.

Fortunately for Francis, Matty Beniers should continue his progress, while Jared McCann might pick up where he left off in 2022-2023. He set personal bests with 40 goals and 70 points.

On Thursday, the Kraken offered a one-year contract and $775,000 to forward Devin Shore, who played for the Edmonton Oilers last season.

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