### Seattle Kraken Bolster Defense with Josh Mahura's Two-Year Contract Extension The Seattle Kraken have made a significant move by re-signing defenseman Josh Mahura to a two-year contract extension. This decision comes after Mahura's solid performance during the 2024-25 NHL season, where he played 64 regular-season games and contributed nine assists. The contract, valued at an average annual value of $907,500, will keep Mahura with the Kraken through the end of the 2026-27 season. Previously, Mahura played for the Anaheim Ducks and Florida Panthers before joining the Kraken as a free agent after the 2023 season, when he was not qualified by Florida. His journey reflects a commitment to depth and stability on the Kraken's blue line as they continue to build their roster for future success [https://www.nhl.com/kraken/news/seattle-kraken-sign-josh-mahura-to-two-year-contract-extension-pr][https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/kraken_sign_josh_mahura_to_two_year_extension/s1_16958_42265526]. ### Overview of the Contract Extension and Player Background 1. **Contract Details**: - Mahura signed a two-year, one-way contract extension. - The contract is worth $1.815 million total, averaging $907,500 annually. - The extension runs through the end of the 2026-27 NHL season [https://www.fox13seattle.com/sports/kraken-re-sign-josh-mahura-two-year-extension]. 2. **Player Performance**: - In the 2024-25 season, Mahura played 64 games, recording nine assists. - He averaged 13:45 minutes of ice time per game, marking a significant role in the team's defensive lineup. - This was his second-most games played in a single season, following an 82-game season with the Panthers in 2022-23 [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/kraken_sign_josh_mahura_to_two_year_extension/s1_16958_42265526]. 3. **Career Background**: - Mahura, 27, hails from St. Albert, Alberta. - He began his NHL career with the Anaheim Ducks and has also played for the Florida Panthers. - After not being qualified by Florida, he joined the Kraken as a free agent, showcasing resilience and adaptability in his career [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/kraken_sign_josh_mahura_to_two_year_extension/s1_16958_42265526]. ### Supporting Evidence of Mahura's Impact and Future Potential - **Performance Metrics**: - **Games Played**: 64 in the 2024-25 season. - **Assists**: 9 assists, contributing to the team's overall offensive play from the defense. - **Average Ice Time**: 13:45 minutes, indicating a reliable presence on the ice [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/kraken_sign_josh_mahura_to_two_year_extension/s1_16958_42265526]. - **Career Statistics**: - Total of 255 career regular-season games played. - Accumulated 10 goals and 30 points throughout his career, demonstrating his ability to contribute offensively from the blue line [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/kraken_sign_josh_mahura_to_two_year_extension/s1_16958_42265526]. ### Conclusion: Strategic Move for the Kraken's Future In summary, the Seattle Kraken's decision to extend Josh Mahura's contract is a strategic move aimed at enhancing their defensive lineup. 1. **Contract Extension**: Mahura's two-year extension at an average annual value of $907,500 solidifies his role within the team. 2. **Player Contribution**: His performance metrics from the previous season indicate he is a valuable asset, capable of contributing both defensively and offensively. 3. **Future Outlook**: With Mahura's experience and potential for growth, the Kraken are positioning themselves for continued success in the NHL [https://www.nhl.com/kraken/news/seattle-kraken-sign-josh-mahura-to-two-year-contract-extension-pr][https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/kraken_sign_josh_mahura_to_two_year_extension/s1_16958_42265526].