Matty Beniers
The first draft pick, the second captain, and the heartbeat of Seattle's hockey renaissance.
Matty Beniers is a central figure in the early history of the Seattle Kraken, widely recognized as the franchise's first-ever draft pick and its second captain. Selected with the second overall pick in the 2021 NHL Entry Draft, his arrival marked a pivotal moment for the new expansion team, instantly providing them with a high-profile young star to build their identity around. As a dynamic center known for his elite playmaking ability, hockey IQ, and leadership beyond his years, Beniers quickly became the face of the Kraken. His selection signaled Seattle's commitment to building through the draft, and his rapid ascent from a college standout at Michigan to an NHL All-Star cemented his status as a foundational pillar of the organization during its formative seasons.
- Role
- Center
- Affiliation
- Seattle Kraken (NHL)
- Draft Status
- 2nd Overall Pick, 2021 NHL Entry Draft
- First Appearance
- April 2, 2022
- Status
- Active Captain (since September 2023)
- Key Achievement
- Calder Memorial Trophy Winner
Verified Timeline
Lore & Background
Matty Beniers' journey to Seattle was steeped in anticipation before he even laced up his skates for the Kraken. As a collegiate standout at the University of Michigan, where he was a Hobey Baker Award finalist and helped the Wolverines reach the Frozen Four in 2021, he arrived in Seattle with an aura of immediate excellence. The franchise, eager to establish a legacy from day one, placed their hopes squarely on his shoulders, making him not just a player but a symbol of the city's return to professional hockey. His tenure as captain is historic; named the second captain in franchise history in September 2023 (succeeding Mark Giordano), Beniers broke the mold for young leaders. He carried the 'C' with a maturity that belied his age, guiding a young roster through the turbulence of expansion and playoff contention. His presence transformed the locker room culture into one of accountability and joy, setting a standard for how Kraken players should conduct themselves on and off the ice.
In Their Own Story
The arena hummed with a nervous energy unique to opening night. Matty Beniers stood at center ice, the fresh paint of the new rink still gleaming under the lights. As the crowd roared, a sound that had been absent from Seattle for decades, he didn't look like a rookie; he looked like an owner. When the puck dropped and the game began, his first touch was crisp, a no-look pass that sliced through the defense with surgical precision. In that moment, the city realized they hadn't just drafted a player; they had found their leader.
Reader's Guide
Matty Beniers is the cornerstone of the Seattle Kraken's early identity. Selected second overall in the 2021 NHL Entry Draft out of the University of Michigan, he made an immediate impact upon his debut on October 14, 2021. His rookie season was nothing short of historic. Beniers became the first Kraken player to be named an NHL All-Star and was awarded the Calder Memorial Trophy as the league's top rookie. He finished that season leading all rookies in scoring, setting a high bar for future expansion players. Beyond his statistical contributions, Beniers' leadership defined the franchise culture early on. In November 2022, he was named the first captain in Kraken history, becoming one of the youngest captains in modern NHL history. His calm demeanor and two-way play have been instrumental in stabilizing the team during its formative years. Beniers represents the 'Seattle' ethos: intelligent, hard-working, and community-focused. He has become a beloved figure in the Pacific Northwest, embodying the hope and excitement that brought hockey back to the city.
Did You Know?
- Matty Beniers was the second player in Seattle Kraken history to be named an NHL All-Star; Jared McCann was the first.
- He won the Calder Memorial Trophy as the league's top rookie during his debut season.
- At just 20 years old, he was named the franchise's second captain in September 2023, following Mark Giordano.
- Before joining the Kraken, he was a Hobey Baker Award finalist and helped the University of Michigan reach the Frozen Four in 2021.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Matty Beniers?
He is an American professional ice hockey center who plays for the Seattle Kraken in the NHL. Beniers serves as the team's captain and was their first-ever draft selection.
How did Matty Beniers join the Kraken?
The franchise selected him with the second overall pick during the 2021 NHL Entry Draft. His arrival provided an immediate star presence for Seattle's inaugural season.
What major award has Matty Beniers won?
He received the Calder Memorial Trophy as the league's top rookie following his first year in the league. This honor highlighted his exceptional performance during the team's expansion debut.
Why is Matty Beniers considered important to the franchise?
As the inaugural captain, he represents the leadership core of Seattle's hockey renaissance. His selection signaled a commitment to building around young talent from the start.
When did Matty Beniers make his first appearance?
He debuted on October 14, 2021, during the franchise's opening night game. This marked the beginning of his tenure as a key figure in Kraken history.
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