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TORONTO — When the Seattle Kraken signed center Chandler Stephenson and defenseman Brandon Montour on July 1, Kraken defenseman Brandon Tanev said it helped him turn the page on what was a disappointing season.

“Those are two amazing players who have both won Stanley Cups over the years,” Tanev said Monday during the fifth annual Zach Hyman Celebrity Classic Charitable Golf Tournament at Oakdale Golf and Country Club. “It’s two great pieces to our team in Seattle so I think everyone in our organization, our team, is extremely excited to have a better season than we did last year. We are all working hard in the offseason and eager to get back at it.”

Stephenson inked a $43.75 million deal spanning six years, with an average annual value of $6.25 million, while Montour secured a $50 million contract over a span of seven years, with an average annual value of $7.14 million.

The additions should bring improvements to the center position and defense, along with an injection of valuable Stanley Cup expertise.

Stephenson played a crucial role in the Vegas Golden Knights’ victorious Cup campaign in 2023, contributing significantly with 51 points from 75 games, comprising of 16 goals and 35 assists.

In the previous season, Montour played a total of 66 regular-season games and amassed 33 points, which included eight goals and 25 assists. Furthermore, he contributed to the Panthers’ victory in the Cup by adding 11 points in 24 postseason games, consisting of three goals and eight assists. During the playoffs, Montour maintained an average of 22 minutes and 39 seconds of ice time. Additionally, he played an average of 26 minutes and 57 seconds in 21 playoff games, which greatly aided Florida in reaching the Cup Final in 2023.

“Tanev, who contributed 16 points (seven goals, nine assists) and played 14:35 minutes on average in 66 games last season, stated that the team’s success will largely depend on the inclusion of players like Chandler and Brandon. However, he believes that true progress will come from the collective growth of the entire team.”

Following their achievement of reaching the second round of the playoffs in the 2022-23 season, the Kraken aimed to capitalize on their previous progress. However, they regressed by obtaining a record of 34-35-13, concluding the season 17 points behind the Golden Knights, who secured the second wild card spot in the Western Conference playoffs.

Tanev expressed that the previous season had been remarkable, as they made it to the second round but unfortunately lost to Dallas. However, he acknowledged that the last season didn’t go as planned, but as professionals, they are determined to make improvements. They have been diligently working during the summer, recognizing the significance of this season for their franchise and group. Their aim is to set a high tempo right from the start.

On May 28, the Kraken made the decision to bring in Dan Bylsma as their new coach, replacing Dave Hakstol. Before joining the Kraken, Bylsma had been coaching the Coachella Valley team, the American Hockey League affiliate of Seattle, for the past two seasons. During his tenure, he achieved an impressive record of 94 wins, 32 losses, and 18 ties, leading the team to consecutive appearances in the Calder Cup Finals. Additionally, Bylsma, who is 53 years old, brings a vast amount of NHL experience to the table, including a Stanley Cup victory in 2009 while coaching the Pittsburgh Penguins.

“He’s been in the scene for quite a while,” Tanev expressed. “With a Stanley Cup victory under his belt and leading Coachella Valley to consecutive Calder Cup Finals, he’s definitely proven his worth. It’s a shame how things fell short in the end, but he’s an incredible individual, brimming with charisma. We’re all thrilled to have him as our coach.”

Jessica Campbell, who worked as an assistant coach alongside Bylsma at Coachella Valley for the past two seasons, will be joining the Kraken this season. By assuming the same position, Campbell will become the NHL’s first female full-time assistant coach.

Tanev expressed his excitement upon learning that Campbell had joined the NHL coaching staff, mentioning their previous collaboration at training camps.

Tanev expressed his awe, stating, “It is truly a remarkable moment for her. Having spent the past two years in Coachella Valley alongside Dan and his team, she has undoubtedly earned her current position. This serves as a remarkable testament to the game’s progress, and we are all incredibly thrilled to have her join us on the bench. We eagerly anticipate listening, learning, and benefiting from her extensive knowledge and contributions to the game.”