Canucks trade Sprong to Kraken for future considerations

The Vancouver Canucks traded winger Daniel Sprong back to the Seattle Kraken for future considerations, the team announced Friday.

The Canucks signed Sprong to a one-year, $975,000 contract in free agency, but he managed just one goal and two assists in nine appearances with the club.

"We would like to thank Daniel for his time here in Vancouver," Canucks general manager Patrik Allvin said. "With his help, our team has started the year in a positive way, and we wish him the best in Seattle."

Sprong, 27, set career highs in goals (21) and points (46) in 66 games during his lone full campaign with the Kraken in 2022-23. He spent 2023-24 with the Detroit Red Wings, where he managed 18 goals and 25 assists in 76 contests.

Sprong ranked 18th among all NHL skaters in five-on-five goals per 60 minutes over the previous three seasons, per Natural Stat Trick. However, he's been unable to carve out a larger role due to inconsistent defensive play as he's averaged just 12:07 per game in that span. The Kraken, who entered Friday ranking 21st in the NHL in goals per game, could use his scoring touch.

Sprong has played for six teams in his nine-year NHL career. He's scored at least 13 goals in every year in which he suited up in 40-plus games.

The Canucks could suddenly be thin at right wing after trading Sprong and potentially losing Brock Boeser to injury. Top prospect Jonathan Lekkerimaki, who's scored five times in seven AHL games this season, could be in line to get his first taste of NHL action at some point in the near future.