Insider reveals the actual reason that the Seattle Kraken keep scratching Shane Wright

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Joshua Deeds
November 5, 2022 (2:08 PM)

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The Seattle Kraken is the newest franchise in the NHL, with a lackluster first year it seems after adding a few talented wingers and 2 rookie centers, the team is faring better as it's 2nd NHL season has started 6-4-2.

With that being said, the Kraken added Shane Wright during the recent 2022 NHL Entry Draft 4th overall.

It's been a disappointing start for the rookie, being out of position, and has only put up 1 point in 6 games.

It didn't seem likely that Wright would stick in the NHL long-term, as Hakstol has scratched the young centre for the last 6 games.

Of course it's frustrating, not playing,. Obviously you want to be in the lineup every night. You want to be that guy, relied on by the coaches.

"Obviously I want to be here long term," the center continued. "It's definitely the only goal and where I want to be, and I think that I can be here.

Since Wright's been scratched there's been an uproar by Kraken fans alike, over the lack of playing opportunities for the rookie. To rub salt in the wound, Hakstol scratched Wright while his family was in town and wanted to see him play

However, in light of all this controversy it may be due to legality that Wright has been scratched:

If Wright is scratched for 5 straight games, he's eligible to be sent down to the Coachella Valley Firebirds and play in the AHL and develop further, should Francis and Hakstol determine it best for his development as a player.

Hakstol addressed this in mid-October:

So for now, Wright will stay in the NHL to develop and continue to compete for a spot in the lineup and if the organization calls for it, he is eligible to be sent down due to a special clause, to negate sending him back to the OHL.

However, is it for the best? Some think another year in the OHL wouldn't hurt.