Kraken reaction: Francis on free agency

The NHL free agent market begins at 9 a.m. PT on Monday. So, by noon, Seattle Kraken general manager Ron Francis will have recruited Sam Reinhart, Steven Stamkos and Jonathan Marchessault; such a large number of players that the NHL will consider canceling the 2024-25 season and awarding the Stanley Cup to the Kraken by unanimous decree.

At least that’s the fantasy scenario – shared by 31 other fan bases.

The reality is much more complicated. Even if the salary cap wasn’t an insurmountable barrier to unlimited player acquisition (which it is), there are so many other factors to consider. Starting with all those other clubs bidding against Seattle. Free agents must want to come here. Their agents and Francis must negotiate a contract that suits both parties. And there is also the adequacy with the players already under contract.

Don’t take my word for it. Francis discusses the fantasy and reality of free agency in this article Kraken Reaction!