Kraken 2025 Draft Targets: Jackson Smith
John Keller / NHL.com
Next on the list as a possible target for the Seattle Kraken at eighth overall is Canadian defenseman Jackson Smith.
Like Radim Mrtka, who we named as the top target yesterday, Smith is a tall defenseman playing in the WHL. With the Tri-City Americans, the 18-year-old scored 11 goals and 54 points in 68 games. It was a large jump in production following his rookie campaign in the WHL, but it was a jump that many analysts expected.
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Smith participated in the U-18s with Canada, scoring four goals and five points in seven games en route to a gold medal.
Listed at 6'3, 190 lbs, Smith's frame as a defenseman stands out, but he is much more than that. His skating and puck handling jump out immediately when watching Smith. He's able to pick up the puck off a dump-in and use his skating to begin the transition. He can do so by skating with the puck or by making a strong first pass.
His defensive game took another step in the right direction, and it's where his size really comes into play. He loves to be physical, routinely separating his opponents from the puck using his body. His positioning in his own end was solid, and he took another step forward, winning a lot of puck battles around the boards.
Although there is a lot to like about Smith's game, there are areas in which he could improve. His playmaking in the opposition end could use some refinement, but it is something that should come with age and experience. At times, he forces plays instead of patiently waiting for the opportunity to present itself.
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The left-handed defenseman will be making his way to the NCAA next season to continue his development, joining Penn State University.
Smith and Mrtka are currently competing to be the second defenseman called at the draft, each garnering excellent results in the WHL with enticing physical tools.
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Kraken 2025 Draft Targets: Radim Mrtka
Kraken 2025 Draft Targets: Radim Mrtka The 2025 NHL Entry Draft is 24 days away, and the Seattle Kraken are slated to make the eighth overall pick in the first round.
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