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Seattle Kraken Secure Two-Year Extensions for Ben Meyers and Ryan Winterton

2/25/2026, 1:04:12 PM

Contract Details and Player Performance

On February 24, 2026, the Seattle Kraken announced two-year contract extensions for forwards Ben Meyers and Ryan Winterton. Meyers, 27, will receive an average annual value (AAV) of $1 million, while Winterton, 22, will earn $1.125 million per year. Meyers has played 31 games for the Kraken this season, recording five goals and six assists, and has also contributed significantly to the Coachella Valley Firebirds in the American Hockey League (AHL), where he has tallied nine goals and four assists in 11 games.

General Manager Jason Botterill emphasized Meyers' importance to the team, stating, "Ben is an integral part of our team... We're happy to have him signed for another two years." Meyers has a total of 106 NHL games under his belt, accumulating 19 points (11 goals, 8 assists) across stints with the Kraken, Colorado Avalanche, and Anaheim Ducks.

Winterton has also made strides this season, achieving personal bests with three goals and 12 assists in 54 games for the Kraken. Botterill noted, "Ryan has taken big strides as a member of the Kraken this season... We're excited to have him under contract through the 2027-28 season." Winterton has spent the previous two seasons primarily with the Firebirds, where he scored 40 goals and 32 assists in 114 games.

Background on Players

Ben Meyers, a native of Delano, Minnesota, had a successful collegiate career at the University of Minnesota, where he was recognized as the Big Ten Player of the Year in 2021-22. He has also represented the United States in international competitions, including the 2022 Winter Olympics.

Ryan Winterton, hailing from Markham, Ontario, was selected by the Kraken in the third round of the 2021 NHL Draft. He has shown consistent improvement, particularly during his time in the OHL, where he won a championship with the Hamilton Bulldogs in 2022.

Implications for the Kraken

The extensions for Meyers and Winterton reflect the Kraken's strategy to solidify their roster depth as they aim for a playoff position in the competitive Pacific Division. Currently, the Kraken are tied for third in the division with 63 points in 56 games, indicating their potential for postseason contention.

Official Statements & Responses

General Manager Jason Botterill expressed confidence in both players, highlighting their contributions and growth within the team. He stated, "Ben is an integral part of our team," and praised Winterton's development, noting his ability to carve out a role with his speed and strong two-way game.

Verbatim Quotes

  • “He's a versatile player who plays with passion. We're happy to have him signed for another two years.” — Jason Botterill, General Manager, Seattle Kraken
  • “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.” — Jason Botterill, General Manager, Seattle Kraken

The Seattle Kraken's commitment to Meyers and Winterton underscores their focus on building a competitive team for the future while fostering player development.