The 2024 NHL Entry Draft will be hosted in Las Vegas on June 28-29, with the Seattle Kraken holding the 8th overall pick.
The Kraken have previously selected three first-round forwards: Matty Beniers in 2021, Shane Wright in 2022, and Eduard Sale in 2023. This year's draft, however, might see a shift in focus.
Seattle's prospect pool is rich in offensive talent but lacks high-end defensive prospects aside from Ryker Evans, Ty Nelson, Caden Price, and Lukas Dragicevic. Fortunately, this draft class boasts a wealth of top-tier defensemen.
A smooth-skating and offensively dynamic defenseman, Buium is an ideal top-pairing candidate. In his freshman year at the University of Denver, he tallied 11 goals and 50 points in 42 games, leading to an NCAA championship. His performance at the World Championship was equally impressive, playing a crucial role in Team USA's gold medal win. Despite his offensive prowess, Buium is also highly effective defensively, known for his backward skating speed and smart stick checks. At 6'0" and 183 lbs, the left-handed defenseman would be a strong addition for the Kraken.
Dickinson, a big and smooth-skating defenseman, has a well-rounded game. He was instrumental in the London Knights' OHL championship and Memorial Cup run, scoring 18 goals and 70 points in 68 regular-season games, and adding four goals and 13 points in the playoffs. Defensively, he uses his 6'3", 203 lb frame to his advantage, excelling in rush defense and puck movement. His physical play and defensive reliability make him a valuable prospect.
Parekh is the most offensively dynamic defenseman in this draft class, finishing the OHL season with 33 goals and 96 points in 66 games, and helping the Saginaw Spirit win the Memorial Cup. Compared to Quinn Hughes, Parekh's offensive skills are undeniable, though his defensive game requires some improvement. With the right development, he could become one of the NHL's best defensemen.
All three defensemen possess franchise-altering potential, with impressive junior league performances and skill sets that could elevate them to elite status in the NHL. If any of these players are available when the Kraken make their 8th overall pick, their decision will be significantly easier.
