Teenage Hockey Hopefuls Inspire with Resilient Stories of Perseverance and Triumph. Two young NHL draft picks, Krantz and Stockselius, are making headlines for more than just their impressive skills on the ice. In a remarkable display of courage and determination, Krantz overcame a life-threatening battle with leukemia at just 8 years old, defying the odds to achieve his hockey dreams. Now, as they embark on their professional careers with the Seattle Kraken and another top NHL team, their inspiring journeys serve as a testament to the power of resilience and the impact they can have on their communities.

Krantz, chosen by the Seattle Kraken in the seventh round (No. 218) of the 2025 NHL Draft, survived leukemia after being diagnosed at age 8. Stockselius, selected in the second round (No. 54) by the ...