Kraken Make Surprise Move: Rising Young Defenseman Recalled in Shocking Twist

The Seattle Kraken have decided to shake things up on the blue line, recalling young defenseman Ville Ottavainen from the Coachella Valley Firebirds. This roster shuffle isn’t just routine— it follows closely on the heels of Brandon Montour stepping away for personal reasons, leaving a gap with no clear return date. So, Ottavainen steps in as the Kraken’s seventh defenseman, a role that’s more about readiness and backing up the squad’s depth than instant ice time. You’ve gotta admire the timing, especially considering the 23-year-old Finnish blueliner barely tasted NHL action—just a single game late last season where he left his mark with an assist. Now, towering at 6-foot-5 and packing 210 pounds, Ottavainen is that promising big kid who’s been plowing through the AHL ranks since being picked 99th overall in the 2021 draft. Meanwhile, Cale Fleury slipped into the lineup just last night for his season debut, helping the Kraken edge out the Maple Leafs 4-3 in OT, but it’s clear the Kraken want a few reliable options on deck given the current situation. With the Flyers waiting on Monday, this shuffle could prove crucial. LEARN MORE

The Seattle Kraken have recalled defenseman Ville Ottavainen from the Coachella Valley Firebirds.

The move comes just a day after Brandon Montour was announced out due to a personal family matter. There is no timetable for his return, and Ottavainen’s promotion to the NHL is to serve as the Kraken’s seventh defenseman.

Cale Fleury made his season debut last night against the Toronto Maple Leafs in Montour’s absence. The 26-year-old finished the Kraken’s 4-3 overtime win with one shot on goal in 11:45 of ice time.

The 23-year-old Ottavainen has played one NHL game in his career, earning a call-up to the NHL late in the 2024-25 season. He notched an assist in 14:24 in his NHL debut. 

Currently, Ottavainen will be a backup, ready to step into the lineup if another defenseman suffers an injury or is unable to play. Standing 6-foot-5, 210 pounds, the young Finnish defenseman has shown plenty of promise playing in the AHL since he was drafted in the third round (99th overall) in the 2021 NHL Draft. 

The Kraken are back in action on Monday when they take on the Philadelphia Flyers on the road.

Shane Wright Scores Against Hometown Team In 100th Game As Kraken Beat Maple Leafs 4-3 In Overtime
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