NHL Hot Seat: Kraken's Free-Agent Upgrades and Grubauer's Challenge

THN.com's NHL Hot Seat Radar series continues with a focus on the Seattle Kraken.

In each installment, we identify a key player under significant pressure to perform (the "hot seat") and another with job security (the "cold seat").

**Kraken's Hot Seat: Philipp Grubauer, G**

In his three seasons with the Kraken, Grubauer's stats have stagnated. His goals-against average has been 2.85 over the last two seasons, and his save percentage has remained below .900 for three years.

Grubauer's contract, with three more seasons at $5.9 million annually, makes him difficult to trade. New head coach Dan Bylsma may reduce Grubauer's playing time in favor of Joey Daccord.

Grubauer was more successful with the Colorado Avalanche and Washington Capitals, but at 32, he's nearing the end of his NHL career. With a stronger defense, including the addition of Brandon Montour, Grubauer must improve to justify the Kraken's investment. If not, a contract buyout could be in his future next summer. For now, he has another chance to prove himself.

Kraken's Cold Seat: Ron Francis, GM

General Manager Ron Francis brought in Montour and former Vegas forward Chandler Stephenson. He also replaced coach Dave Hakstol with Dan Bylsma, a Stanley Cup winner with AHL success.

Francis might seem at risk if Kraken fans compare their team to the successful Vegas Golden Knights. However, his job security remains strong. If the Kraken miss the playoffs again, his seat could warm up, but his overall track record and recent additions have provided a solid foundation for the franchise.

Despite the pressure every NHL GM faces, Francis's position is secure for now, and if the Kraken perform well, he will continue to lead the team.