The Seattle Kraken are experiencing a mix of positive returns and Olympic representation as the 2026 season progresses. Here’s a breakdown of the latest news and rumors surrounding the team:
Stephenson Returns to the Lineup
Chandler Stephenson has been activated from the non-roster list after a brief absence, having missed two games to welcome the birth of his child. His return is a significant boost for the Kraken, who went 1-1 in his absence. Stephenson is expected to resume his role as the second-line center, bringing his blend of speed, puck possession, and hockey sense back to the team.
The 31-year-old has been a consistent contributor for Seattle, ranking third on the team with 11 goals and 27 points in 42 games while averaging nearly 20 minutes of ice time per game. He also provides stability in faceoffs, winning over 52% of his draws. To make room for Stephenson, Oscar Fisker Molgaard has been reassigned to the AHL's Coachella Valley Firebirds. Molgaard did not appear in a game during his recall, and the team wants him to get regular playing time in the AHL.
Montour's Recovery Progress
Defenseman Brandon Montour, who underwent hand surgery in December, has resumed skating with the team in a non-contact jersey. This marks the first time he has skated with his teammates since the procedure, indicating that his recovery is moving in the right direction. Montour has been sidelined since December 17 after sustaining a hand injury in a fight.
Montour's presence has been missed on the Kraken's blue line, where his pace and offensive instincts are highly valued. Coach Lane Lambert has not provided a specific timeline for Montour's return. The next steps in his recovery will involve controlled contact and workload management before he can be cleared for game action.
Kraken Players Headed to the Olympics
Several Kraken players are set to represent their countries at the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics. Forwards Eeli Tolvanen and Kaapo Kakko have been named to Team Finland. Goaltender Philipp Grubauer will represent Team Germany. Additionally, Oscar Fisker Molgaard will represent Denmark in the Olympics.
This will be Tolvanen's second time representing Finland at the Olympics, having previously competed in the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Games. Kakko will be making his Olympic debut. Grubauer said it is a huge honor to represent Germany at that stage.
Roster Decisions Loom
With Stephenson's return and Montour nearing his own, the Kraken face difficult roster decisions. The team is currently at its 23-man roster limit, not including injured goaltender Matt Murray. Once Montour is activated, a corresponding move will need to be made.
