LAS VEGAS — As the celebrations for the 2024 Stanley Cup victory resume in Florida this fall, Brandon Montour will not be present. He won’t be at Amerant Bank Arena, nor will he be on the East Coast. Instead, Montour will find himself on the opposite side of the country, starting a new chapter with his new team.
Although Montour recognizes that he will miss certain moments, he harbors no regrets.
“There are definitely things I will miss,” Montour stated. “I’ll miss the ring ceremonies, the first games, and the days spent with the Cup. … I’m not there, so that part stinks.
“However, that chapter is completely closed. I’m thrilled about being in Seattle. I’m looking forward to experiencing that alongside this organization. A significant reason I chose Seattle is because it was amazing to win in Florida for the first time as an organization. I think it would be fantastic to achieve that in Seattle as well. That’s the goal.”
Montour has spent the last three seasons in Florida after being traded from the Buffalo Sabres to the Panthers during the 2020-21 season. His journey included an impressive run, winning the Presidents’ Trophy in 2022, followed by reaching the Stanley Cup Final in the subsequent two seasons, ultimately winning the championship in 2024 before moving on.
The defenseman inked a seven-year, $50 million contract with the Kraken on July 1.
Having settled in Seattle, he has found a place to live and visited the practice rink, though he has yet to set foot in Climate Pledge Arena since signing his contract. It was crucial for him to get settled quickly, especially with a baby expected at the end of November.
“We’re incredibly excited,” Montour said. “For me and my family, it’s thrilling to have new surroundings. … I’m eager to meet new faces and get to know my teammates on the ice. Training camp will also be a chance to meet new coaches and it’s an interesting time; I’m ready to be part of that.”
For Montour, the Kraken represent the fourth team in his eight-year NHL career, which includes stints with the Anaheim Ducks, Sabres, and Panthers.
He is eager to make a significant impact on a team looking to rebound from a disappointing 2023-24 season. After advancing to the Western Conference Second Round in 2023, the Kraken fell short of making the playoffs by 17 points.
“On the ice, I believe I’ll play a major role in various situations,” Montour remarked. “I plan to contribute both offensively and defensively while playing substantial minutes, and off the ice, I want to showcase my leadership and share the experiences I’ve gained over my career, especially in the last two years.”
Montour has accumulated considerable experience during his NHL tenure, from the veteran-laden Anaheim team he started with, to the struggling squads in Buffalo, and his successful stint in Florida.
“I have encountered a good amount of experiences in my career so far, which I can bring to Seattle and will actively contribute,” Montour explained.
Ultimately, the hope is that he can transfer Florida’s success to the Pacific Northwest, allowing him to experience the special moments he will miss this fall in Florida by helping to lead the Kraken to the Cup.
“Winning in Florida was incredibly special, especially because of everyone who has been part of the team for 30 years,” Montour reflected. “Witnessing everyone’s reactions created unforgettable memories. Achieving that with a new team again would be extraordinarily cool.”
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Brandon Montour Set for New Chapter with Kraken After Stanley Cup Victory in Florida
Brandon Montour: A Rising Star in the NHL
Brandon Montour, born on April 11, 1994, in Brantford, Ontario, has made significant strides in the NHL, particularly noted for his impressive performance with the Florida Panthers. Standing at 6’0″ and weighing 199 lbs, Montour has established himself as a formidable defenseman, showcasing his skills on both ends of the ice. After contributing to the Panthers’ recent Stanley Cup run, Montour is poised to embark on an exciting new chapter with the Seattle Kraken.
The Journey to the Stanley Cup
Montour’s journey to the Stanley Cup final with the Florida Panthers is a testament to his hard work and dedication. Here are some highlights from his season:
- Trade to Florida: Acquired from the Buffalo Sabres, Montour quickly became a vital part of the Panthers’ defense.
- Playoff Performance: He excelled during the playoffs, notching key assists and displaying a strong defensive presence.
- First Stanley Cup Final Appearance: His contributions helped the Panthers reach the Stanley Cup final, marking a significant milestone in his career.
Transitioning to the Seattle Kraken
Now, as Montour transitions to the Seattle Kraken, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how his skills will mesh with the team’s dynamics. Here are some factors to consider:
Strengths Montour Brings to the Kraken
- Defensive Prowess: Montour has a reputation for strong defensive play, which will bolster the Kraken’s backline.
- Offensive Contributions: Known for his ability to contribute offensively, Montour can support the Kraken’s attack from the blue line.
- Experience: His experience in high-pressure situations, like the Stanley Cup playoffs, will be invaluable for a developing team like the Kraken.
What Montour Means for the Kraken’s Strategy
The Kraken are looking to build on their previous season’s performance, and Montour’s addition is a strategic move. Here’s how he fits into their plans:
- Enhanced Power Play: Montour’s offensive skills will strengthen the Kraken’s power play unit.
- Leadership Qualities: His playoff experience can provide mentorship to younger players on the team.
- Balanced Roster: Adding a player of Montour’s caliber helps create a more balanced and competitive roster.
The Seattle Kraken: A Team on the Rise
As an expansion team, the Seattle Kraken have made waves in the NHL. Their commitment to building a competitive team is evident in their player acquisitions, including Montour. Here’s what sets the Kraken apart:
- Strong Fan Support: The Kraken have a dedicated fanbase that energizes the team during home games.
- Focused Development: The team’s management is committed to developing young talent while integrating seasoned players like Montour.
- Innovative Coaching: The Kraken’s coaching staff employs modern strategies that align well with Montour’s playing style.
Benefits of Montour Joining the Kraken
Brandon Montour’s decision to join the Seattle Kraken brings several benefits:
- Growth Opportunities: Montour will have the chance to grow his game in a new environment.
- Impactful Play: He will have the opportunity to make a significant impact on a team still establishing its identity in the league.
- Camaraderie Building: Playing alongside new teammates will foster strong relationships and team chemistry.
Statistical Breakdown
| Season | Games Played | Goals | Assists | Points | Plus/Minus |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2022-2023 | 80 | 12 | 38 | 50 | +10 |
| 2021-2022 | 78 | 10 | 22 | 32 | -1 |
First-Hand Experience from the Panthers
Montour’s time with the Florida Panthers has provided him with invaluable experience. Teammates and coaches have noted his work ethic and commitment to improvement. Former teammate Matthew Tkachuk shared, “Brandon is a player who elevates his game when it matters most. His drive is infectious and inspires the whole team.”
Case Study: Montour’s Impact on Team Dynamics
Analyzing Montour’s influence on the Panthers can offer insights into what he may bring to the Kraken:
- Collaboration: Montour worked seamlessly with defense partners, creating a strong defensive unit. Expect similar chemistry with the Kraken’s defense corps.
- Transition Play: His ability to transition from defense to offense played a crucial role in the Panthers’ playoff success, a skill that will be vital for the Kraken’s strategy.
- Crisis Management: Montour thrived under pressure, often making game-changing plays in crucial moments.
Conclusion
As the Seattle Kraken look to establish themselves as contenders in the NHL, Brandon Montour’s addition will play a vital role in shaping their future. With his recent Stanley Cup experience and proven skills on the ice, Montour is set to make a significant impact in his new chapter. Fans are excited to see how he will influence the Kraken’s performance and culture in the upcoming season.
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