Berkly Catton at a Crossroads
In a pivotal moment for his budding career, Berkly Catton, a center for the Seattle Kraken, finds himself at a crossroads as training camp approaches. The 19-year-old player faces two potential paths: securing a spot on the NHL roster or returning to the Spokane Chiefs, his former junior team in the WHL. However, Catton is determined to avoid another season in the WHL and aims to impress the Kraken’s coaching staff during this crucial evaluation period.
Positive Assessment and Adaptation
The assessment of Catton’s performance thus far has been positive. Kraken coach Lane Lambert recognized Catton’s effort on the ice, highlighting his partnership with veteran teammates Jared McCann and team captain Jordan Eberle, describing the trio as a promising line. Catton himself has quickly realized that adapting to the NHL’s fast-paced environment requires a blend of agility and strategy, saying,
“It’s a lot different… I can’t just outmuscle guys like Larsson, so I need to be quicker and focus on positioning.”
Support from Veteran Teammates
Adding to his confidence, Catton credits McCann and Eberle for easing his transition to the professional level. He stated that their experience and skill have played a significant role in helping him acclimate.
“Playing alongside such talented players has been invaluable; they communicate where I need to go, making it easier to adjust to their style. I’m really enjoying this experience and feel that we’re developing good chemistry, which is exciting,”
he noted.
Looking Ahead
The first half of the pre-season will be critical for Catton, as he seeks to capitalize on this opportunity and earn a coveted nine-game stint with the Kraken. If he can demonstrate his capabilities effectively, he could set the stage for a full season in the NHL come 2025-26. With high hopes and a robust strategy, Berkly Catton is determined to make this rookie camp count more than ever before.
