Seattle Kraken Welcomes Nathan Villeneuve: A Rising Star in the NHL

Exciting News for Seattle Kraken Fans

SEATTLE, Wash.— April 8, 2025 — The Seattle Kraken are thrilled to announce the signing of Nathan Villeneuve, their 2024 second-round draft pick, to a three-year, two-way entry-level contract valued at $975,000 AAV, which will commence in the 2025-26 season.

General Manager Ron Francis expressed enthusiasm about the new addition, stating, "We are excited to officially welcome Nathan to the Kraken organization. Nathan has a unique blend of grit and skill. We look forward to watching his development continue."

Villeneuve's Impressive OHL Career

In his third season with the Ontario Hockey League’s (OHL) Sudbury Wolves, Villeneuve has made significant strides, setting career highs with:

• 70 points (36 assists, 34 goals)
• 12 power-play goals
• 5 game-winning goals
• 120 penalty minutes

Notably, he achieved his first career hat trick on December 20, scoring three goals in one game. His 120 penalty minutes tied for third among all OHL players, showcasing his competitive edge.

Villeneuve's performance in the 2024-25 season also includes a remarkable seven-game point streak, where he recorded 13 points (7 goals, 6 assists). Over his OHL career, he has amassed 142 points (69 goals, 73 assists) in 168 regular-season games and has contributed 9 points (6 goals, 3 assists) in 17 playoff games.

Early Career and International Experience

Before his time with the Wolves, Villeneuve played for the Ottawa Jr. 67s and the Navan Grads U18 AAA team. During his U14 years, he led all Hockey Eastern Ontario (HEO) skaters with 33 goals, earning the title of HEO Champion in 2019-20 and later being named the HEO U18 Top Prospect in 2021-22.

On the international stage, the Ottawa native represented Canada at the 2022-23 U17 World Hockey Challenge, where he contributed five points (3 goals, 2 assists) in seven games and helped his team secure a silver medal. Villeneuve was drafted 63rd overall by Seattle in the 2024 NHL Draft.