Dallas Stars’ season ended amid controversy after Pete DeBoer benched Jake Oettinger in Game 5, a decision that helped trigger his ouster and sparked a team-wide accountability debate. Oettinger called the moment embarrassing, while DeBoer later admitted the handling was off and that the club as a whole bears the blame.

Oettinger leaned on support from Mason Marchment and Matt Dumba, who visited his home the night after, shaving beards and sharing a moment of camaraderie. The episode reshapes how fantasy managers view Dallas’ goaltending stability and the team’s leadership moving into the next season.

Lane Lambert arrives in Seattle with a straight-shooter, team-first ethos that prioritizes collective growth over finger-pointing.

His Islanders tenure showcased a disciplined, difficult-to-play-for squad, built on communication and players feeling valued; Trotz's influence helped shape that blueprint.

Seattle added Mason Marchment and retained a core of 20-goal scorers as Lambert negotiates a lean blue line and a developing goalie in Joey Daccord, aiming to lift the Kraken in a crowded Pacific.

Preseason opens against Anaheim as Lambert tests whether his foundation translates into a durable identity and a productive partnership with his staff and players.

Mason Marchment's recent acquisition by the Seattle Kraken marks a significant shift for the player as he transitions from the Dallas Stars. Having experienced the intense atmosphere during the Stanley Cup playoffs at Climate Pledge Arena, Marchment looks forward to joining the Kraken's ranks. Entering the final year of his contract with a $4.5 million cap hit, he aims to enhance the Kraken's offensive depth as they prepare for the 2025-26 season under new coach Lane Lambert.

Marchment, who achieved a career-high of 22 goals last season, believes his style of play aligns with the Kraken's aspirations to build a more aggressive and gritty team. His commitment to forechecking and creating plays around the net may bolster Seattle’s chances of making the playoffs. Excited about his fresh opportunity, Marchment is keen to integrate into the Kraken’s squad and contribute immediately.

Mason Marchment is gearing up for his first season with the Seattle Kraken after being traded from the Dallas Stars. Having played in the playoffs against Seattle, Marchment is excited about the passionate fanbase and the challenging environment at Climate Pledge Arena. He tied his career high with 22 goals last season and aims to boost the Kraken's offensive capabilities this coming season.

Entering the final year of his contract, Marchment embraces the business side of hockey and believes his new team has the potential to improve under head coach Lane Lambert. He prides himself on being a versatile player, ready to contribute in multiple facets of the game, especially during crucial moments that lead teams to playoff success.