Articles / Down on the Farm – Saarinen’s Liiga dominance, and the Kraken development track record

Down on the Farm – Saarinen’s Liiga dominance, and the Kraken development track record

S
Sound of Hockey
Mar 21, 2026 4:30 PM

Summary: This is a summary of an article originally published by Sound of Hockey. Read the full original article here →

The Seattle Kraken are continuing to build their roster with a keen eye on player development, particularly focusing on their farm system. With the impressive performances of players in the Liiga, the team's prospect pipeline has been gaining attention. Notably, the emergence of prospects like Aleksi Malinen and Joonas Lehtivuori showcases the potential talent that could eventually make its way to the NHL.

One highlighted player is Joona Koppanen, who is making waves in the Finnish league. His balance of skill and physicality makes him a prominent figure in discussions around future Kraken prospects. There's a belief that players like Koppanen could soon don the Kraken jersey, further enriching the already talented roster.

The management's emphasis on nurturing young talent in the AHL, along with their strategic signings, reflects their commitment to long-term success. The efforts in scouting and development, combined with the current roster, position the Kraken as an emerging contender in the league. Fans are eagerly watching how these prospects will translate their success overseas into the North American game, particularly in a competitive Pacific Division.

As the Kraken's development track record continues to grow, it’s clear that the franchise is dedicated to creating a sustainable winning culture and that the future is bright for Seattle hockey enthusiasts. The interplay of homegrown talent and seasoned players is expected to shape a resilient team identity moving forward.