The have inked free-agent centre Luke Henman to a three-year, entry-level contract to mark the first player signing in franchise history.

Henman, a Dartmouth, N.S., native, was selected 96th overall in 2018 by the Carolina Hurricanes, who never signed him to an entry-level deal in the two years they held his rights.

The 21-year-old played five seasons in the QMJHL as a member of the Blainville-Boisbriand Armada, scoring 236 points (75 goals, 161 assists) in 253 games. He served as captain of the team in 2019-20 and 2020-21.

“Luke is a smart, skilled player with strong leadership qualities,” said Seattle Kraken general manager Ron Francis. “He brings solid character, which this organization values, and we look forward to working with him as he continues his development.”

The Kraken’s NHL expansion draft takes place on July 21.