Kraken sign 1st player, Luke Henman, to entry-level deal

The Seattle Kraken completed their first-ever player transaction.

Luke Henman inked a three-year, entry-level contract with the expansion franchise, the Kraken announced Wednesday. It's a standard two-way deal.

The 21-year-old center is in the midst of the QMJHL playoffs with the Blainville-Boisbriand Armada. He's scored six goals in seven postseason games this spring after collecting 16 markers and 27 helpers in 32 contests during the regular season.

"Luke has put up the numbers in the 'Q' and he is team captain," Kraken general manager Ron Francis said. "He has solid character. We do think he needs to get stronger. We are excited to sign him as our first player.

"He's still a little bit light," Francis added. "But he thinks the game well and has the skating and hockey skills we like when scouting players."

Henman, who's listed at 6-foot and 168 pounds, is in his fifth campaign with the Armada. The Carolina Hurricanes drafted him 96th overall in 2018, but he ultimately didn't sign with them.

The Kraken will fill out their roster during the expansion draft on July 21. The NHL's 32nd team is scheduled to begin play in the 2021-22 season.

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