The latest NHL trade news has fans buzzing as the Seattle Kraken sent forward Andre Burakovsky packing to the Chicago Blackhawks in exchange for Joe Veleno. The trade was finalized on a Saturday, marking a significant move for both teams as they look to strengthen their rosters for the upcoming season.
Burakovsky, a seasoned 30-year-old forward, showcased his skill with 37 points, including 10 goals and 27 assists, in 79 games played with the Kraken last season. Known for his versatility and scoring ability, Burakovsky has a solid track record in the league, accumulating 387 points c153 goals, 234 assistsc in 696 NHL games across stints with the Washington Capitals, Colorado Avalanche, and the Kraken.
What sets Burakovsky apart is his championship pedigree, having hoisted the Stanley Cup twice during his career. He was part of the Capitals' historic championship run in 2018 and then contributed to the Avalanche's triumphant season in 2022. His experience and winning mentality bring valuable intangibles to his new team in Chicago.
Moreover, Burakovsky is not just a short-term fix for the Blackhawks, as he still has two seasons left on a lucrative five-year, $27.5 million contract that he inked with Seattle in 2022. This deal, with an average annual value of $5.5 million, provides stability and consistency to the Blackhawks' forward group for the foreseeable future.
On the other side of the trade, the Kraken acquired Joe Veleno, a 25-year-old forward who split his time between the Blackhawks and the Detroit Red Wings last season. Veleno contributed 17 points, tallying eight goals and nine assists, in 74 games played. The young center, drafted 30th overall by the Red Wings in 2018, has shown promise in his career, with 81 points c38 goals, 43 assistsc in 306 NHL games.
Veleno's addition to the Kraken roster brings youthful energy and depth to their forward lines. With one season remaining on his current two-year, $4.55 million contract, Veleno has the opportunity to prove himself and potentially secure a long-term role with Seattle.
Seattle Kraken general manager Jason Botterill expressed gratitude for Burakovsky's contributions to the team, highlighting his value and wishing him well in his new endeavor with the Blackhawks. Botterill also emphasized the Kraken's strategic approach to the trade, mentioning the acquisition of a young player with experience and the enhancement of their salary cap flexibility for future team-building efforts.
As the NHL offseason heats up with trades and roster adjustments, the Burakovsky-Veleno swap stands out as a significant transaction that could impact both teams positively in the upcoming season. Fans will be eagerly watching how these talented forwards integrate into their new environments and contribute to their teams' success on the ice.
