Seattle Kraken refuse to sell Shane Wright for cheap as Canucks circle

The Seattle Kraken have dug in their heels on forward Shane Wright’s trade value, refusing to move the 22-year-old for anything less than a premium return.

What happened?

NHL insider Rick Dhaliwal revealed the Vancouver Canucks have approached Seattle about Wright, but the asking price remains steep. Seattle wants one of Vancouver’s top defensive prospects—either Zeev Buium or Tom Willander—in exchange. The Kraken also sit 13th in the Western Conference with a 34-37 record and a three-game losing streak.

Why it matters for Seattle Kraken

Wright’s future in Seattle has been in doubt since his agent requested a trade after a disappointing 2025-26 season. The Kraken, however, have shown no willingness to move him for a discounted deal. Instead, they’re holding out for a prospect package that reflects his potential as a former fourth overall pick.

Vancouver’s pursuit is part of a broader rebuild under financial constraints. The Canucks are targeting young, unprotected forwards like Wright, Kent Johnson, and Matthew Knies to fit their timeline. But Dhaliwal noted Vancouver’s owners are tight on spending, saying, “Anything in Vancouver is money out, money in.”

What comes next?

The Kraken’s next game is against Vancouver on September 20, 2026, a matchup that could take on added intrigue if trade talks heat up. Seattle’s refusal to budge on Wright’s value complicates Vancouver’s plans, leaving the Canucks to weigh other options under their cap restrictions.

Dhaliwal also revealed the Ducks have called Vancouver about moving Frank Vatrano to clear cap space for Cutter Gauthier. But the Canucks aren’t in a position to absorb extra contracts freely, reinforcing their cautious approach to roster-building.