The Seattle Kraken, approved by the NHL in 2018, have quickly become a captivating legend in hockey. Ron Francis, their experienced general manager, leads the team with a vision for success. After a slow start, the Kraken triumphed in their playoff debut and showed promise for future seasons. Their deep sea blue colors and unique logos pay homage to Seattle’s maritime heritage. With a diverse ownership group including Marshawn Lynch and Macklemore, the team has strong financial backing. The Kraken’s dedication to excellence on and off the ice is setting the stage for even greater achievements.
Established
2020
City
Seattle
League History
2021 – Present / National Hockey League
Team History
2021 – Present / Seattle Kraken
Nickname
Kraken – The Seattle Kraken, the newest addition to the National Hockey League (NHL), officially announced their team nickname on July 23rd. The name pays homage to a mythical sea creature that has been part of maritime lore for centuries and is deeply rooted in Pacific Northwest culture.
The Kraken is believed to have originated from Scandinavian folklore, where it was described as an enormous octopus-like creature capable of destroying entire ships with its massive tentacles. No wonder this fierce monster symbolized power and strength throughout maritime history – essential qualities in hockey!
Seattle's NHL franchise wanted their team name to be unique yet familiar, which led them to explore various nautical themes before deciding on “Kraken” as their official moniker. This decision reflects Seattle's strong connection with water — whether through fishing or sailing — making this choice even more meaningful for local fans who have grown up around these activities all their lives.
Furthermore, by incorporating “Kraken” into both its logo design and marketing campaigns, Seattle hopes to bring some extra excitement into what will already be an exciting season full of rivalries between teams across North America! With such a mighty mascot now representing them at every game they play–not just locally but nationally, too–it should come as no surprise if we start seeing more enthusiastic crowds cheering on the home side whenever they take center ice during any match-up this season!
Championship
Stanley Cup 0
Arena
2021 – Present / Climate Pledge Arena
Owner
2021 – Present / David Bonderman, Jerry Bruckheimer, and Tod Leiweke
- 2018
- 2020
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Formation of the Seattle Team
The NHL Board of Governors voted unanimously to approve Seattle’s expansion team on December 4, 2018. Seattle will begin to play in the 2021 – 2022 seasons as a member of the Pacific Division in the Western Conference; therefore the Arizona Coyotes will shift from the Pacific Division to the Central Division to balance out the four divisions at eight ... -
Release the Kraken
On July 23, 2020, the franchise officially announced their team name, the Seattle Kraken, as well as their team colors, branding, and home jersey. The event was held under the banner of “Release the Kraken,” a phrase popularized by the 1981 film Clash of the Titans and the 2010 remake.
History of the Seattle Kraken
Upon the NHL’s approval of Seattle’s expansion team on December 4, 2018, the Seattle Kraken embarked on a historic journey, marked by the appointment of Ron Francis as the general manager and the unveiling of their captivating team name on July 23, 2020, while developing a notable rivalry with the Vancouver Canucks.
The expansion excitement was palpable as the city eagerly anticipated the debut of their new hockey team. Ron Francis, a respected figure in the hockey world, brought experience and leadership to the organization as the general manager. His hiring signaled a commitment to building a competitive team from the ground up.
Achievements and Highlights of Seattle Kraken
With notable successes and milestones marking their journey, the Seattle Kraken have swiftly made their mark in the NHL through a series of achievements and highlights.
In the 2023 Stanley Cup Playoffs, the Kraken faced the Colorado Avalanche, securing a historic victory by winning the inaugural playoff series against the defending champions. Despite finishing their inaugural season at the bottom of the Pacific Division, the team showcased remarkable team dynamics by clinching their first playoff berth in the second season.
Notably, player contributions were significant, with standout performances leading to memorable wins. The Kraken’s journey is characterized by playoff success, highlighting their resilience and potential for future triumphs in the league.
Branding and Mascots
Their distinctive branding and captivating mascot embody the team’s unique identity and connection to the city’s rich history. The team’s primary colors of deep sea blue, inspired by Seattle’s maritime roots, are prominently featured in their uniform designs.
The Kraken unveiled a logo on July 23, 2020, incorporating elements from the Seattle Metropolitans and the mythical kraken tentacle. Additionally, the secondary logo cleverly combines an anchor with the iconic Space Needle, further solidifying the team’s ties to Seattle.
The team’s mascot, Buoy, a sea troll, was introduced before the 2022–23 season, adding a playful and whimsical touch to the Kraken’s branding. These branding choices have been integral in shaping the Kraken’s unique visual identity.
Broadcasting and Media Partnerships
Regularly showcasing their games through various media channels, they have strategically partnered with prominent broadcasters to reach a broad audience base. In addition to traditional radio broadcasts on stations like KJR-FM 93.3 and KJR 950 AM, the team has secured a significant TV broadcasting deal with Tegna. This collaboration ensures fans can follow the action both on the airwaves and on the screen.
Everett Fitzhugh leads the radio play-by-play commentary, while John Forslund commands the television broadcasts, providing fans with expert insights and analysis. Moreover, the Kraken has expanded its reach through the Kraken Audio Network, offering coverage beyond Seattle. These partnerships not only enhance the fan experience but also open up opportunities for sponsorship deals and the distribution of digital content on various streaming platforms.
Ownership and Affiliations
Kraken’s ownership structure and affiliations showcase a diverse mix of influential figures from the sports and entertainment industries. The team’s ownership group includes notable names such as Marshawn Lynch, Macklemore, and Amazon Web Services CEO Andy Jassy. These individuals bring a wealth of experience and resources to the franchise, contributing to its success both on and off the ice.
In addition to their ownership roles, the Kraken’s affiliations extend to the Coachella Valley Firebirds in the AHL, fostering connections within the broader hockey community. Furthermore, the team actively engages in community involvement and charitable partnerships, demonstrating a commitment to giving back.
Through strategic sponsorship deals and strong financial backing, the Seattle Kraken continues to strengthen its position in the world of professional hockey.
Player Roster and Performance
Building upon their strong ownership foundation and community engagement, the Seattle Kraken’s current player roster and performance reflect a dynamic blend of talent and determination in their pursuit of hockey excellence.
Player development and team chemistry have been key focuses, with coaching strategies aimed at maximizing individual skills while fostering cohesive teamwork. Performance analysis plays a crucial role in honing the team’s strengths and addressing areas for improvement.
The Kraken’s commitment to fostering a winning culture is evident in their strategic approach to roster management and on-ice execution. As they continue to evolve and grow, the Kraken’s dedication to excellence serves as a driving force behind their quest for success in the NHL.
Fan Engagement and Community Impact
With a dedicated focus on fostering strong connections with their fan base and making a positive impact within the community, the Seattle Kraken exemplifies a commitment to engagement that extends beyond the ice.
The team actively participates in community events and outreach programs, working to build relationships with fans both on and off the ice. Through their active presence on social media, the Kraken ensures continuous interaction with their supporters, providing updates, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and opportunities for fans to engage with the team.
Sports Fan Products
Retired Number
99 Wayne Gretzky
*Blue is this team’s history