Shane Wright Proving First-Overall Value in His First Full Season

Shane Wright’s journey from top draft prospect to the National Hockey League (NHL) has been a whirlwind, but in his first full season, he is starting to prove why he was selected as the first overall pick in the 2022 NHL Draft.

After a roller-coaster start to his rookie campaign, Wright is showing glimpses of his immense potential and is steadily becoming an impactful player for the Seattle Kraken.

The transition from junior hockey to the NHL can often be a challenging one, especially for a player with the high expectations that come with being a first-overall pick.

Wright’s first taste of the NHL came during a brief stint with the Kraken last season, which saw him shuffle between Seattle and their AHL affiliate, the Coachella Valley Firebirds.

This stop-and-start experience gave him valuable lessons in adapting to the NHL’s speed, size, and physicality.

However, the 2023-24 season marks Wright’s first full year with the Kraken, and he is steadily proving his worth. While not always the flashiest player on the ice, Wright’s hockey IQ, versatility, and two-way play are beginning to shine.

He brings a level of consistency that is critical in a young player, with his ability to play in all situations — whether it’s on the power play, penalty kill, or in high-pressure moments. Wright’s maturity in handling different roles is what sets him apart from many other players in his age group.

One area where Wright has been particularly noticeable is his faceoff ability. The center is known for his excellent positioning and work ethic in the circle, and he is already one of the Kraken’s most reliable players in this aspect of the game.

His poise and decision-making, often making the right pass or creating opportunities for his teammates, are qualities that make him a valuable asset on the ice.

Although the offensive numbers aren’t off the charts yet, Wright’s playmaking ability and vision continue to develop. He’s creating scoring chances and showing a growing chemistry with his linemates. It’s clear that his confidence is growing with each game, and the puck is starting to follow him with increasing frequency.

As Wright continues to mature and adjust to the pace of the NHL, the future looks incredibly bright. He’s proving that he has the skillset to live up to the immense expectations placed on him as the top pick and is on track to become a foundational piece of the Kraken’s lineup for years to come.

The early signs are all there: Wright is emerging as the player Seattle envisioned when they selected him, and his first full season is quickly solidifying his place as a top talent in the league.