Matty Beniers with the Kraken for a long time!

In August, the Kraken confirmed Matty Beniers' new seven-year, $50 million contract. This deal not only keeps the 2023 Rookie of the Year in Seattle but also ensures the team remains solid down the middle. Beniers, through his first two full NHL seasons, has shown he can score and be a valuable defensive asset.

What makes Beniers special? Let's explore:

After a brief 10-game debut in the 2021-22 season, Beniers immediately proved he belonged in the NHL. Across 157 games over two seasons, the 2021 second-overall pick has tallied 103 points (42 goals, 61 assists), averaging a solid .62 points per game-an impressive start when compared to his draft-class peers. Only Dallas' Wyatt Johnson has scored more goals and points, and Beniers is one of just two 2021 draftees to surpass 100 NHL points.

Of Beniers' 42 goals, 12 have come on the power play, with five being game-winners. His fearless play is on full display, such as when he stayed on the ice after a hard hit against the Islanders to score, or when he notched the game-winner in Vancouver last season, showcasing his knack for finding dangerous scoring areas (he had a 66.3% slot shot success rate last season).

But Beniers' value goes beyond the scoreboard. His faceoff success has improved, jumping from a 41% win rate in his first two seasons to 48% last season in 5-on-5 play, and over 50% on the power play. His tenacity also shines through in puck battles, ranking among the top Kraken forwards in contested loose puck recoveries. Last season, Beniers averaged 56.6 loose puck recoveries per 60 minutes, tied with Yanni Gourde for second-best among Kraken forwards.

Beniers' ability to gain possession allows him to drive plays, averaging 6.5 possession-driving plays per 20 minutes. His hockey IQ and skill set make him equally adept at setting up teammates with prime scoring chances or taking the shot himself.

As the Kraken continue to build toward long-term success, Beniers will undoubtedly play a central role in their quest for greatness.