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Kraken Select Mark Giordano from Flames |
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Well, so much for an exciting televised NHL Expansion Draft tonight. Shortly after the Seattle Kraken submitted their official selection list to the league, NHL Insiders, primarily Frank Seravalli, sharing chosen players as they leaked.
To the surprise of no one, Seattle elected to choose captain Mark Giordano from the Flames.
Spending the first 15 years of his career as a member of the Flames organization, the 37-year-old defenseman played 949 games, recording 143 goals and 366 assists. In addition, Giordano was an unmatched leader both on the ice in and in the locker room, as well as a caring member of the community.
Though it appears Seattle went a different direction than many expected with a lot of their picks, taking Giordano from the Flames was a no-brainer. If the Kraken elects to hold onto him, he will serve as a calming presence for many adjusting to a new team and possibly larger roles. At the same, Seattle may choose to flip him for future assets instead.
Now that Calgary is without its longtime captain, it is now time for Brad Treliving to replace both his on-ice production and leadership qualities. One task may prove to be slightly easier than the others.
Things should get interesting once the trade freeze is finally lifted.