Breaking News: The Seattle Kraken are shaking things up! They've traded forward Mason Marchment to the Columbus Blue Jackets, just six months after welcoming him to the team. This move sparks questions about the Kraken's strategy and what the future holds for both teams.
Greg Wyshynski, ESPN's senior NHL writer, broke the story on December 20, 2025.
So, what's the deal? The Blue Jackets are giving up two draft picks to get Marchment. Specifically, the Kraken will receive a 2026 fourth-round pick (originally from the New York Rangers) and a 2027 second-round pick. This signals a strategic shift for both teams.
Blue Jackets general manager Don Waddell is clearly excited, stating, "Mason is a player I know very well, and I think he will add a great deal to our team. He is a physical, hard-nosed competitor with proven offensive ability, and we are very excited to have him join the Blue Jackets."
Now, let's talk about Marchment himself. The 30-year-old had 13 points in 29 games for Seattle, including just four goals. This is a noticeable dip from his performance with the Dallas Stars, where he scored 22 goals in 62 games last season. He's currently in the final year of a four-year, $18 million contract, carrying a $4.5 million cap hit. Interestingly, no salary was retained in this trade.
The Kraken initially welcomed Marchment with open arms, acquiring him from Dallas in June for third- and fourth-round picks. General manager Jason Botterill praised Marchment as a veteran who brings size, skill, and toughness, and knows what it takes to win.
But here's where it gets controversial... The Kraken needed a change, having lost 10 of their last 11 games. They haven't won in regulation since November 20th. Their current record is 12-14-6, putting them seven points out of a playoff spot in the Western Conference. Was this trade a necessary move to try and revitalize the team?
Meanwhile, Marchment joins a Columbus team that's at .500 for the season (14-14-6), but currently sits at the bottom of the highly competitive Eastern Conference. Columbus is also struggling offensively, ranking 21st in the NHL with 2.88 goals per game. Don Waddell's interest in Marchment dates back to his time as general manager of the Carolina Hurricanes.
And this is the part most people miss... The trade happened right before the NHL's holiday roster freeze, which began at midnight on Saturday and lifts on December 28th. This timing adds another layer of intrigue.
What do you think? Will this trade benefit the Blue Jackets? Did the Kraken make the right move? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
