Full Breakdown
Seattle Kraken Acquire Mackie Samoskevich from Florida Panthers
6/22/2026, 9:43:56 PM
Trade Details and Immediate Impact
On June 21, 2026 Seattle traded the No. 25 overall 2026 first-round pick and a conditional 2027 second-round pick (higher of Winnipeg or Columbus) to Florida for forward Mackie Samoskevich, a 23-year-old right-shot winger and 2025 Stanley Cup champion.
Background & Context
The Panthers, fresh off 2024-25 titles, missed the 2025-26 playoffs and began a rebuild. Seattle, with four missed postseasons, sought a young winger for speed and depth.
Key Figures & Groups
Jason Botterill, Kraken GM; Mackie Samoskevich, former Panthers forward; Matty Beniers, Kraken center and former Michigan teammate; Panthers now hold first-round picks No. 9 and 25 and two second-rounders.
Data & Statistics
Samoskevich has 27 goals, 36 assists for 63 points in 156 games (some sources list 64 points in 160). In 2025-26 he posted 12 goals, 20 assists (32 points) in 77 games, 136 hits, 33 blocks, 161 shots. Seattle gave up No. 25 and a 2027 second-rounder; Florida now holds No. 9, No. 25 and second-rounders No. 40, 48.
Why It Matters / Impact
The acquisition gives Seattle a proven scorer and right-handed shot, addressing a roster gap and potentially improving power-play production. Florida’s added picks provide capital for future trades or draft selections.
Official Statements & Responses
Botterill praised Samoskevich’s age, speed and shooting, saying his right-handed shot fits Seattle’s four-line model and his championship pedigree adds value. Panthers framed the deal as gaining flexibility.
Criticism & Opposition
Fans called the return underwhelming for Florida, suggesting cap space for Dylan Larkin, while others praised Seattle for a core piece with 50-60 point upside.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Career totals differ: some list 64 points in 160 games, others 63 in 156. One source reports 31 points for 2025-26, most cite 32. Exact 2027 pick position remains unspecified.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Mackie is a talented young player who we are excited to bring into the fold,” — Jason Botterill, Kraken GM
- “He has speed, skill and scoring ability. A Stanley Cup champion with the Panthers in 2025, Mackie's a player who can contribute offensively and add a spark to our lineup.” — Jason Botterill
- “Seattle GM Jason Botterill talked about why he chased the winger: “For me, there’s the fact that, at such a young age, he’s been able to win a Stanley Cup already, and he’s been a part of a very successful organization in Florida.” — Jason Botterill
- “I just love his age, love his speed and I love his shot. So, I think he’ll fit in very well with the style of play that we’re trying to play on an everyday basis here.” — Jason Botterill
What’s Next
Seattle must sign Samoskevich before his July 1 unrestricted free-agent deadline; the 2026 NHL Draft starts Friday in Buffalo, where the Kraken keep the No. 7 pick.
