SEATTLE — Stanley Cup playoff appearances have been rare for the Seattle Kraken since their inaugural season.
However, Mason Marchment is quite familiar with playoff hockey.
Marchment, recently acquired by the Kraken from the Dallas Stars in exchange for draft picks (a 2025 fourth-rounder and 2026 third-rounder), experienced playoff action at Climate Pledge Arena in 2023 during the series between the Kraken and Stars.
While Dallas ultimately won the second-round series in seven games, Marchment witnessed the passionate and loud atmosphere created by fans in Seattle.
“It was awesome,” Marchment commented via Zoom on Tuesday. “The fan base definitely stands out immediately. It was electric in there for three games. It was a tough arena for visiting teams. I’m looking forward to being on the home side now.”
The 30-year-old forward matched his career high with 22 goals last season. With Marchment entering the final year of his contract at a $4.5 million cap hit, the cap-strapped Stars decided to trade him.
The Uxbridge, Ontario native spent the first three seasons of his six-year NHL career with the Toronto Maple Leafs and Florida Panthers. Marchment wasn`t bothered by the trade, even though he was three years into a four-year contract.
“It’s a business, and I understand that,” Marchment stated. “I’ve been involved in hockey my whole life. Changes had to happen, and I was part of it. I don’t see it negatively. It`s positive that other teams are interested. It’s just how the business works. You adapt, but I’m truly excited to begin my time in Seattle and play.”
Marchment has the potential to be a consistent top-six forward for the Kraken. Under new head coach Lane Lambert, the team aims to return to the playoffs in 2025-26 and become a more physical group, utilizing the existing roster effectively after the departure of previous coach Dan Bylsma.
Marchment takes pleasure in engaging on the forecheck, backchecking effectively, and looks forward to contributing in these ways for Seattle.
“Those are aspects of my game I take pride in and strive to do well,” Marchment explained. “Contributing in those areas will be beneficial. Also, going to the net front and screening the goalie is crucial. These small details help win games and reach the playoffs.”
With training camp months away, Marchment’s specific line assignment isn’t determined. However, he`s already learning about his new teammates, partly through defenseman Brandon Montour, a former teammate in Florida.
Marchment is also familiarizing himself with Seattle. The city will transition from an occasional road trip stop to his new home, where he`s anticipated to make an immediate impact.
“I’m really excited to get there and meet everyone,” Marchment concluded. “For me, it represents a fresh start and a great opportunity, which is always exciting. I`m looking forward to it, and hopefully, we can improve as a team and reach the playoffs.”
