Seattle Kraken Secure Veteran Goalie Matt Murray with $1M Deal

Seattle, USA - In a strategic move to bolster their goaltending lineup, the Seattle Kraken have signed experienced goaltender Matt Murray to a one-year contract valued at $1 million. With Murray joining the ranks, the team aims to strengthen their depth chart behind incumbent goalies Joey Daccord and Philipp Grubauer.

Murray, 31, is no stranger to high-pressure situations. He boasts an impressive resume as a two-time Stanley Cup champion, having lifted the coveted trophy with the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2016 and 2017. Kraken General Manager Jason Botterill emphasized Murray’s substantial experience and winning record as key factors in this deal. After spending the majority of the 2024-25 season honing his skills with the AHL’s Toronto Marlies, where he recorded a stellar 10-5-4 record, a 1.72 goals-against average, and an impressive .934 save percentage, the Kraken view Murray as a valuable asset heading into the upcoming season. In his time with the Marlies, he even achieved back-to-back shutouts against Manitoba, stopping a remarkable 55 shots combined during those games.

Addressing Goaltending Depth

The decision to sign Murray came after the Kraken recognized the pressing need for reliable goaltending depth. With Aleš Stezka moving on to play in Czechia and an underwhelming performance last season from Grubauer, the Kraken are taking proactive steps to ensure they have solid backup options. Notably, Grubauer is set to represent Germany in the upcoming Olympics, highlighting the urgency for the team to shore up their goaltending rotation.

Botterill remarked on the importance of adding competition and depth in an Olympic year, ensuring that the team is not just prepared for the regular season but also for any challenges that may arise. Murray’s arrival will not only provide a seasoned presence but will also foster healthy competition amongst the goaltenders vying for playing time.

Future Outlook

Murray’s career stats speak volumes about his capabilities. Over nine seasons in the NHL, he has played a total of 274 regular-season games, achieving a record of 147 wins, 87 losses, and 24 ties, along with a 2.80 goals-against average and a .910 save percentage. Furthermore, his postseason performance has been noteworthy, with a record of 29-21, a 2.19 GAA, and six shutouts in 52 playoff games, showcasing his ability to shine when it matters most.

The Kraken are hopeful that Murray’s winning mentality and proven track record of playoff success will be an invaluable addition to the team as they prepare to make strides in the coming 2025-26 season. As they look to build upon their previous efforts, the focus is clear: competition, depth, and a renewed push for success.

For more detailed statistics on Matt Murray, you can check the NHL Kraken press release for first-hand insights on his performance history, and for additional coverage about the deal, visit Fox 13 Seattle’s report.