Seattle Kraken secure two-year extensions for Ben Meyers and Ryan Winterton

The Seattle Kraken have bolstered their forward depth by agreeing to two-year contract extensions with forwards Ben Meyers and Ryan Winterton.[1][2] Announced on February 24, 2026, these deals keep both players in Seattle through the 2027-28 season, signaling the team’s confidence in their bottom-six contributors. General manager Jason Botterill praised the duo for their versatility and growth, emphasizing their roles in the Kraken’s ongoing push for playoff contention.

As the Kraken navigate a competitive Pacific Division, securing familiar faces like Meyers and Winterton provides stability amid injuries and roster flux. Meyers has been sidelined since late January, while Winterton has logged a career-high number of games this season. These extensions reflect a strategic focus on internal development rather than splashy free-agent pursuits.

Ben Meyers: Versatile depth forward earns his keep

Ben Meyers, 27, has become a reliable presence for the Kraken since joining the organization. This season, he has appeared in 31 games with Seattle, posting five goals and six assists for 11 points.[3][2] His average time on ice hovers around 11:38 per game, often filling middle-six minutes with energy and physicality. Meyers also splits time with the AHL’s Coachella Valley Firebirds, showcasing the two-way nature of his contract prior to this extension.

A lower-body injury has kept Meyers out since January 27, but his pre-injury form highlighted his value. In his last five games before the setback, he notched points in key matchups, including a goal and assist against Pittsburgh.[2] Across 106 career NHL games, Meyers has 11 goals and eight assists, proving his mettle as an undrafted player who grinded through college at the University of Minnesota.

Botterill captured Meyers’ appeal perfectly: “Ben is an integral part of our team. He’s a versatile player who plays with passion. We’re happy to have him signed for another two years.”[1] This extension, reportedly a one-way deal, underscores Seattle’s belief in his recovery and continued contributions.

Meyers’ shooting percentage stands at 12.5% this year on 40 shots, with one game-winning goal to his credit. His faceoff win rate of 53.4% adds to his utility on the penalty kill and in defensive-zone draws. For more on his profile, check his ESPN player page.

Looking ahead, Meyers’ return could shore up a forward group tested by injuries. His passion aligns with the Kraken’s gritty identity, making this a low-risk, high-reward move.

Ryan Winterton: Youngster’s strides pay off with security

At just 22 years old, Ryan Winterton is experiencing a breakout 2025-26 campaign, appearing in a career-high 54 games with three goals and 12 assists for 15 points.[4][5] Drafted by Seattle in the third round (67th overall) in 2021, Winterton has evolved from limited NHL stints—19 games over the prior two seasons—into a steady bottom-six option.

Winterton’s speed and two-way game have shone through, with a +3 plus/minus rating and strong peripheral stats like 48 hits and 25 blocked shots.[5] He averages 11:38 per game on the ice, often chipping in on the penalty kill. Recent outings, like an assist against Los Angeles on February 4, demonstrate his growing comfort at the NHL level.

Over 75 career games, Winterton has three goals and 13 assists, all with Seattle. His development trajectory mirrors the Kraken’s patient approach to prospects, transitioning from AHL success with Coachella Valley—where he posted solid numbers—to NHL reliability.

Botterill highlighted Winterton’s progress: “Ryan has taken big strides as a member of the Kraken this season. He’s been able to carve out a role on this team with his speed and strong two-way game. We’re excited to have him under contract through the 2027-28 season.”[1] The two-year, $2.25 million pact rewards his consistency.

Key stats for Winterton this season:

With room to grow into a larger role, Winterton’s extension stabilizes Seattle’s youth pipeline.

Botterill’s strategy: Building from within

Jason Botterill’s comments reveal a deliberate philosophy prioritizing players who embody the Kraken’s culture. For Meyers, it’s about passion and versatility; for Winterton, speed and reliability. These extensions fit into a broader pattern of rewarding internal growth, avoiding the volatility of the trade market.[1]

Seattle’s cap situation benefits from these cost-controlled deals, preserving flexibility for bigger moves. Both are one-way contracts, signaling full NHL commitments. The official Kraken announcement details the team’s optimism.

In a league where depth wins playoffs, Botterill’s moves echo successful models like the Colorado Avalanche’s prospect integration. Meyers and Winterton aren’t stars, but their reliability in high-leverage situations—Winterton’s blocks, Meyers’ timely scoring—adds grit.

Critics might note their modest production, but context matters: limited ice time and injuries. Botterill’s track record suggests faith in upside.

This approach could define Seattle’s 2026-27 roster, blending veterans with emerging talent.

Implications for Kraken’s playoff push

These extensions enhance Seattle’s forward depth, crucial as they chase a wild-card spot. With Meyers returning, the bottom six gains punch; Winterton’s consistency provides matchup flexibility.

Comparatively, teams like the Vegas Golden Knights thrive on similar depth players. Seattle’s special teams—where both contribute—could improve with health.

Potential lineup impacts:

• Meyers slots into third-line wing, boosting scoring.
• Winterton anchors penalty kill, adds speed.
• Combined, they free top lines for offense.

Injuries exposed vulnerabilities earlier; now, stability aids momentum. Fan reactions on Reddit praise the deals as savvy.[6]

Long-term, through 2027-28, these pacts align with core players’ timelines, fostering continuity.

As the season progresses, expect Meyers’ rehab and Winterton’s growth to influence outcomes. For the Kraken, this is about sustainable contention—depth secured, future bright.