On March 2, the Seattle Kraken strengthened their defensive options by signing defenseman Gustav Olofsson to a one-year contract worth $775,000. This new agreement elevates Olofsson from his existing two-year AHL deal with the Coachella Valley Firebirds to a two-way NHL contract similar to his previous deal signed in 2023. The contract includes a minor-league salary increase from $350,000 to $460,000, according to PuckPedia. This move came amid the Kraken’s ongoing efforts to bolster their roster through fresh contracts.
Olofsson’s Waiver Placement and Assignment to Coachella Valley
Upon signing the NHL contract, the 31-year-old Olofsson was placed on waivers and subsequently cleared them, as noted by Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet. Following this, the Kraken assigned him back to their AHL affiliate, the Coachella Valley Firebirds. Despite the contract upgrade, Olofsson will remain primarily with the Firebirds, continuing to provide defensive depth to the organization without an imminent NHL recall.
Recent Performance and Role with Coachella Valley Firebirds
Olofsson has been a vital presence for the Firebirds, serving as an alternate captain for four seasons. This year, he has demonstrated improved offensive capability, accumulating 16 points in 29 games, ranking third among Firebirds defensemen behind Tyson Jugnauth and Ty Nelson. His recent surge over the last eight games includes five points, ten penalty minutes, and a plus-five rating. Despite these offensive contributions, his primary role remains defensive, leveraging his large frame and reach to disrupt opposing players in the zone.
Olofsson’s NHL Career and Impact on Seattle’s Defensive Depth
Although Olofsson has not been recalled by the Kraken since the 2023-24 season, he has NHL experience dating back to his time with the Minnesota Wild, where he played 41 games in the 2017-18 season. Over six NHL seasons and 63 games, he has recorded 11 assists without scoring goals. His contribution often centers on defensive responsibilities rather than offensive production. With this contract update, the Kraken reinforce their defensive lineup depth, even if Olofsson’s active role continues predominantly in the AHL.
Looking Ahead: Stability and Depth for the Kraken Organization
This contract adjustment signals the Kraken’s intent to preserve organizational stability and depth within their defensive units. Olofsson’s experience and leadership with the Firebirds make him a key figure in the minors, ready for potential NHL opportunities if needed. While an immediate change in lineup status appears unlikely, his presence shores up Seattle’s capacity to manage defensive demands throughout the season.
“Olofsson has cleared waivers, per Friedman. The team confirmed he’s been sent back to Coachella Valley” – Elliotte Friedman, Sportsnet
Everyone from yesterday cleared https://t.co/Ji1L3cLn9i
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) March 3, 2026
Goose is back 🪿
The #SeaKraken have signed defenseman Gustav Olofsson to a one-year deal. pic.twitter.com/NDf8ZmqsNx
— Seattle Kraken (@SeattleKraken) March 2, 2026
The #SEAKraken signed 31 y/o D Gustav Olofsson to a two-way $775K cap hit contract for the remainder of the 25/26 season
NHL $775K
Minors: $460KRep'd by Ben Hankinson @OctagonHockey https://t.co/nTh0iqfxdR
— PuckPedia (@PuckPedia) March 2, 2026
New on waivers
Gustafsson (DET)
Olofsson (SEA)
Pitlick (MIN) https://t.co/ZdPjExTSl3— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) March 2, 2026
