Seattle Kraken extend contract of Firebirds John Hayden, meaning he will avoid free agency

The Seattle Kraken made a decision on one of the Firebirds' more notable potential free agents Wednesday, announcing that they have extended the contract of John Hayden.The new deal is a two-year, one-way contract extension at $775,000 per year starting with the 2025-26 season, and means Hayden will not enter free agency.Hayden played 20 games for the Kraken last season and 44 games for the Firebirds.

A one-way contract hints that plan A would be for Hayden to start the season with the Kraken.

"One way" means he gets the same salary whether he's on the Kraken or the Firebirds.

As opposed to a "two-way" contract which means he gets paid less while in the AHL and more while in the NHL.John has been an important player in our organization over the past three seasons, making an impact at both the NHL and AHL level, said the Kraken's new general manager Jason Botterill.

Hes a strong leader who brings a terrific work ethic and physical presence.

Were excited to have him in our organization for the next two years.

Hayden, 30, played in 20 regular-season games for the Kraken last season, recording one goal and one assist and 31 penalty minutes.

He also skated in 44 regular-season contests with the Firebirds, registering 11 goals and 16 assists.

In the 2025 Calder Cup Playoffs, Hayden posted two goals and an assist in six games.

The 6-foot-3, 223-pound forward has played in 269 career NHL regular-season games with the Kraken, Buffalo Sabres, Arizona Coyotes, New Jersey Devils and Chicago Blackhawks.NHL free agency begins on July 1.

Hayden was one of the bigger names among Firebirds players who will be up for free agency.

That list includes Luke Henman, Brandon Biro, Gustav Olofsson, Max Lajoie, Nikolas Brouillard, Cale Fleury, Ben Meyers and Ales Stezka.Shad Powers is a columnist for The Desert Sun.

Have a question about the Firebirds? Reach him at [email protected] article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: Seattle Kraken extend contract of Firebirds star John Hayden.

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