### Seattle Kraken Bolster Defense with Ryan Lindgren's Signing The Seattle Kraken have made a significant move in the 2025 NHL free agency by signing defenseman Ryan Lindgren to a four-year contract worth $18 million. This acquisition aims to address the team's defensive struggles from the previous season, where they allowed an average of 3.20 goals against per game. Lindgren, known for his defensive prowess and reliability, is expected to enhance the Kraken's backline as they look to improve their performance after a disappointing season [https://apnews.com/article/kraken-ryan-lindgren-contract-49e45c373e7a07ddf4bb3283615ccd9a]. ### Overview of the Signing and Player Background 1. **Contract Details**: - Lindgren signed a four-year deal with an average annual value of $4.5 million [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/kraken_sign_lindgren_to_4_year_deal_with_45_million_aav/s1_16448_42401734]. 2. **Player History**: - The 27-year-old defenseman has played 405 career regular-season games, previously with the New York Rangers and Colorado Avalanche, accumulating 102 points [https://www.nhl.com/kraken/news/seattle-kraken-agree-to-terms-with-defenseman-ryan-lindgren-to-four-year-contract-pr]. 3. **Performance Metrics**: - Last season, Lindgren recorded 22 points (4 goals, 18 assists) and contributed defensively with a plus/minus rating of +99 over his career [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/kraken_sign_lindgren_to_4_year_deal_with_45_million_aav/s1_16448_42401734]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Career Statistics**: - **Games Played**: 405 - **Goals**: 14 - **Assists**: 88 - **Points**: 102 - **Plus/Minus Rating**: +99 - **Hits**: 594 - **Blocked Shots**: 593 - **Average Ice Time**: 19:05 minutes per game [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/kraken_sign_lindgren_to_4_year_deal_with_45_million_aav/s1_16448_42401734]. - **Team Impact**: - Lindgren is expected to fill a crucial role in the Kraken's top four defensemen, joining established players like Vince Dunn and Adam Larsson [https://www.yardbarker.com/nhl/articles/kraken_sign_lindgren_to_4_year_deal_with_45_million_aav/s1_16448_42401734]. ### Conclusion and Future Implications In summary, **Ryan Lindgren's signing represents a strategic move for the Seattle Kraken as they aim to enhance their defensive capabilities**. The team is looking to rebound from a challenging season, and Lindgren's experience and skill set could be pivotal in achieving that goal. 1. **Contract Signing**: Lindgren signed a four-year, $18 million contract. 2. **Player Experience**: He has a solid track record with over 400 NHL games played. 3. **Defensive Role**: Expected to significantly improve the Kraken's defensive performance. This acquisition not only strengthens the Kraken's roster but also signals their commitment to building a competitive team in the NHL [https://www.fox13seattle.com/sports/lindgren-eager-new-opportunity-kraken].