Seattle Kraken

File:Seametro.jpg were the first American team to win the Stanley Cup.]]

Professional ice hockey in Seattle dates back to the formation of the Pacific Coast Hockey Association's Seattle Metropolitans in 1915. Even though the 1917 Metropolitans were the first United States-based team to win the Stanley Cup, the team's arena was sold in 1924, and the team folded shortly after.{{Cite web |last=Gierasimczuk |first=Tom |date=March 27, 2017 |title=How a Team in Seattle, of All Places, Changed Hockey Forever |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2017/03/27/sports/hockey/seattle-metropolitans-stanley-cup-seattle-ice-arena.html |url-access=limited |access-date=November 29, 2024 |website=The New York Times}} The Seattle Totems (originally the Seattle Ironmen) played in the Western Hockey League from 1944 until the league's dissolution in 1975.{{cite web |last=Fischler |first=Stan |title=Seattle has long history of interesting hockey nicknames |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/seattle-long-history-of-interesting-hockey-nicknames/c-313246286 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221230074012/https://www.nhl.com/news/seattle-long-history-of-interesting-hockey-nicknames/c-313246286 |archive-date=December 30, 2022 |website=National Hockey League |date=December 31, 2019 |access-date=March 10, 2025}}

Expansion and relocation proposals for an NHL team to Seattle often came with a new arena proposal, especially after the Seattle SuperSonics of the National Basketball Association (NBA) were relocated to Oklahoma City in 2008. From 2012 on as the NHL's interest in Seattle as a market rose, the city was positioned as a locale for expansion or a relocating team pending a viable arena. Multiple reports suggested Chicago Wolves owner and businessman Don Levin had expressed interest in building a new arena in nearby Bellevue that could host an NHL team.{{cite news |last=Daniels |first=Chris |title=Chicago businessman speaks on Bellevue and NHL |url=http://www.king5.com/sports/Chicago-businessman-speaks-on-Bellevue-and-NHL-125048514.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120402203335/http://www.king5.com/sports/Chicago-businessman-speaks-on-Bellevue-and-NHL-125048514.html |archive-date=April 2, 2012 |access-date=December 15, 2024 |work=KING-TV |date=July 5, 2011}} On February 16, 2012, a plan was announced to build a new arena in Seattle's SoDo district, just south of Safeco Field. An investment group, headed by hedge fund manager Chris Hansen, proposed the arena seeking a return of the SuperSonics and was interested in possibly having an NHL team as well. When Greg Jamison was unable to meet a deadline to purchase the Phoenix Coyotes on January 31, 2013, speculation began that the team would be relocated to Seattle.{{cite news |last=Eaton |first=Nick |title=NHL's Phoenix Coyotes could be back on the table for Seattle |url=http://blog.seattlepi.com/seattlesports/2013/01/31/nhls-phoenix-coyotes-could-be-back-on-the-table-for-seattle/ |access-date=December 15, 2024 |newspaper=Seattle Post-Intelligencer |date=January 31, 2013}} On June 16, 2013, it was confirmed that the Phoenix Coyotes would be moving to Seattle if an arena deal between the team and the city of Glendale was not reached. Ray Bartozek and Anthony Lanza would purchase the franchise for US$220 million and immediately begin operations in Seattle for the following season.{{cite news |last=Leahy |first=Sean |title=Phoenix Coyotes moving to Seattle? Roenick reportedly part of Plan B for NHL |url=https://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nhl-puck-daddy/phoenix-coyotes-moving-seattle-roenick-reportedly-part-plan-143114434.html |access-date=December 15, 2024 |work=Yahoo Sports |publisher=Yahoo |date=June 16, 2013}} However, on July 3, 2013, the Glendale City Council narrowly voted 4–3 to keep the Phoenix Coyotes in Glendale.{{cite news |last=Wyshynski |first=Greg |date=July 3, 2013 |title=Phoenix Coyotes avoid relocation, stay in Glendale as city council passes arena lease |url=https://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/nhl-puck-daddy/phoenix-coyotes-avoid-relocation-stay-glendale-city-council-063019646.html |access-date=July 12, 2015 |publisher=Yahoo Sports}} A 2013 study by statistician Nate Silver concluded that Seattle had the largest number of avid ice hockey fans of any U.S. media market that did not have an NHL team.{{cite web |last=Silver |first=Nate |title=Why Can't Canada Win The Stanley Cup? |url=https://fivethirtyeight.com/features/why-cant-canada-win-the-stanley-cup/ |access-date=December 15, 2024 |work=FiveThirtyEight |date=May 31, 2013}}

{{further|Ice hockey in Seattle#Seattle Kraken (2018–present)}}

On December 4, 2017, the Seattle City Council voted 7–1 in favor of a memorandum of understanding between the City of Seattle and Oak View Group, a sports company co-founded by Tim Leiweke,{{cite news |last=Baker |first=Geoff |date=December 4, 2017 |title=KeyArena MOU approved by Seattle City Council; will NHL announcement soon follow? |url=http://www.seattletimes.com/sports/nba/keyarena-mou-approved-by-seattle-city-council-will-nhl-announcement-soon-follow/ |url-access=limited |access-date=September 1, 2024 |newspaper=The Seattle Times}} for renovations of KeyArena. Three days later, the National Hockey League (NHL) Board of Governors agreed to consider an expansion application from Seattle, with an expansion fee set at $650 million.{{cite news |date=December 7, 2017 |title=Bettman says NHL will consider Seattle expansion bid |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nhl/2017/12/07/bettman-says-nhl-will-consider-seattle-expansion-bid/108414480/ |access-date=September 1, 2024 |newspaper=USA Today}} The Seattle ownership group was represented by David Bonderman and Jerry Bruckheimer.{{cite news |last=Rosen |first=Dan |date=December 7, 2017 |title=Seattle can begin NHL expansion process |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/seattle-can-begin-nhl-expansion-process-says-bettman/c-293782092 |access-date=September 1, 2024 |website=National Hockey League}}

File:NHL_Seattle_logo.gif

Exactly a year after the memorandum of understanding, the NHL Board of Governors voted unanimously to approve a Seattle expansion team being added to the league.{{Cite web |last=Rosen |first=Dan |date=December 4, 2018 |title=Seattle NHL expansion approved by Board of Governors |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/seattle-nhl-expansion-approved-to-be-32nd-team-play-in-2021-22-302581450 |access-date=June 6, 2024 |website=National Hockey League}} In mid-2019, the organization hired Ron Francis as their general manager to initiate operations for the team.{{Cite web |last=Quinn |first=Patrick |date=July 18, 2019 |title=NHL Seattle names Ron Francis as first general manager of hockey franchise |url=http://komonews.com/sports/sports-content/nhl-seattle-names-ron-francis-as-first-general-manager-of-hockey-franchise |access-date=July 18, 2019 |website=KOMO}} Francis later stated that three things he wanted to prioritize in the Kraken's roster were speed, character, and competitiveness.{{Cite web |last=Fox |first=Luke |date=November 19, 2019 |title=7 interesting things from Ron Francis about the Seattle NHL team |url=https://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/7-interesting-things-ron-francis-seattle-nhl-team/ |access-date=August 23, 2024 |website=Sportsnet}} In July 2020, the franchise announced their team name—the Seattle Kraken—as well as their team colors, branding, and home jersey.{{cite news |last=Booth |first=Tim |date=July 23, 2020 |title=Release the Kraken: Seattle unveils name for NHL franchise |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/nhl/release-the-kraken-seattle-unveils-name-for-nhl-franchise/2020/07/23/d505aeb8-ccff-11ea-99b0-8426e26d203b_story.html |access-date=September 1, 2024 |newspaper=The Washington Post |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200723202859/https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/nhl/release-the-kraken-seattle-unveils-name-for-nhl-franchise/2020/07/23/d505aeb8-ccff-11ea-99b0-8426e26d203b_story.html |archive-date=July 23, 2020}}

Nine months later, on April 30, 2021, the franchise paid the final installment of the US$650 million expansion fee, officially making the Seattle Kraken the 32nd team of the NHL.{{cite news |date=April 30, 2021 |title=Seattle Kraken officially become NHL's 32nd team after final expansion payment |url=https://www.sportsnet.ca/nhl/article/seattle-kraken-officially-become-nhls-32nd-team-final-expansion-payment/ |access-date=September 1, 2024 |work=Sportsnet}} The Kraken signed their first player, Luke Henman, on May 12.{{Cite web |last=Condor |first=Bob |date=May 12, 2021 |title=He Shoots, He Scores, He Joins the Kraken |url=https://www.nhl.com/kraken/news/kraken-agree-to-terms-with-luke-henman-324622296 |access-date=March 24, 2024 |website=National Hockey League}} More than a month later, the organization hired Dave Hakstol to be their inaugural head coach.{{cite web |last1=Condor |first1=Bob |date=June 24, 2021 |title=Getting it 'Right' |url=https://www.nhl.com/kraken/news/kraken-hire-dave-hakstol-as-first-head-coach/c-325455844 |access-date=June 28, 2021 |website=National Hockey League}} On July 19, a three-day period began where the Kraken could talk to unrestricted free agents before any other team could.{{Cite web |last=Wyshynski |first=Greg |date=July 21, 2021 |title=Kraken focus on blue line, sign Larsson, Oleksiak |url=https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/31856025/sources-seattle-kraken-sign-goalie-chris-driedger-d-man-adam-larsson |access-date=September 1, 2024 |website=ESPN}} The Kraken used this period to sign Adam Larsson, Jamie Oleksiak, and Chris Driedger.{{Cite web |date=July 24, 2021 |title=Kraken Sign Trio to Multi-year Deals |url=https://www.nhl.com/kraken/news/kraken-sign-trio-to-multi-year-deals-325798872 |access-date=September 2, 2024 |website=National Hockey League}} An expansion draft was held three days later at Gas Works Park in front of more than 4,000 spectators and fans.{{Cite web |date=July 22, 2021 |title=Kraken hold NHL Expansion Draft in Seattle |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/seattle-kraken-build-roster-in-expansion-draft-325718236 |access-date=September 1, 2024 |website=National Hockey League}} The draft was held in a similar manner to a previous expansion draft held in 2017 for the Vegas Golden Knights, who were themselves exempt from the 2021 expansion draft.{{cite web |date=July 23, 2020 |title=Seattle 2021 NHL Expansion Draft rules same as Golden Knights followed |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/seattle-kraken-2021-nhl-expansion-draft-rules-same-as-vegas-golden-knights-followed/c-302586918 |access-date=September 2, 2024 |website=National Hockey League}} Larsson, Oleksiak, and Driedger counted as the pick from their respective teams (Edmonton, Dallas, and Florida, respectively).{{Cite web |last=Rosen |first=Dan |date=July 22, 2021 |title=NHL Expansion Draft selection tracker for Kraken |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/2021-expansion-draft-picks-analysis-coverage-325718388 |access-date=September 2, 2024 |website=National Hockey League}} Two days later, the first round of the 2021 NHL entry draft took place. The Kraken used their second-overall pick to select Matty Beniers, a center from the University of Michigan. The previous season, Beniers had scored 24 points throughout 24 games, and his 10 goals ranked first among goals for first-time draft-eligible NCAA players.{{Cite web |date=July 24, 2021 |title=Kraken Select Beniers with Second Pick in 2021 NHL Draft |url=https://www.nhl.com/kraken/news/kraken-select-beniers-with-second-pick-in-2021-nhl-draft-325797262 |access-date=September 2, 2024 |website=National Hockey League}}{{Cite web |last=Kimelman |first=Adam |date=July 24, 2021 |title=2021 NHL Draft first-round results, analysis |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/nhl-draft-round-1-picks-analysis-coverage-325756734 |access-date=September 2, 2024 |website=National Hockey League}}

On July 28, 2021, the Kraken started their inaugural free agency strongly, signing forwards Alexander Wennberg{{Cite web |date=July 28, 2021 |title=Seattle Kraken Agree to Terms with Forward Alexander Wennberg |url=https://www.nhl.com/kraken/news/seattle-kraken-agree-to-terms-with-forward-alexander-wennberg-325847494 |access-date=September 3, 2024 |website=National Hockey League}} and Jaden Schwartz,{{Cite web |date=July 28, 2021 |title=Seattle Kraken Agree to Terms with Forward Jaden Schwartz |url=https://www.nhl.com/kraken/news/seattle-kraken-agree-to-terms-with-forward-jaden-schwartz-325847922 |access-date=September 3, 2024 |website=National Hockey League}} and goaltender Philipp Grubauer.{{Cite web |date=July 28, 2021 |title=Seattle Kraken Agree to Terms with Goaltender Philipp Grubauer |url=https://www.nhl.com/kraken/news/seattle-kraken-agree-to-terms-with-goaltender-philipp-grubauer-325848870 |access-date=September 3, 2024 |website=National Hockey League}}{{Cite web |last=Condor |first=Bob |date=July 28, 2021 |title=Opening Day, NHL Free Agency |url=https://www.nhl.com/kraken/news/2021-nhl-free-agency-tracker-325835390 |access-date=September 3, 2024 |website=National Hockey League}}{{Cite web |last=Condor |first=Bob |date=July 29, 2021 |title=Kraken GM Talks Three Newest Free Agents |url=https://www.nhl.com/kraken/news/kraken-gm-talks-three-newest-free-agents-325862636 |access-date=September 3, 2024 |website=National Hockey League}} On October 11, the Kraken named Mark Giordano as the team's inaugural captain.{{Cite web |last=Myers |first=Tracy |date=October 11, 2021 |title=Giordano named first captain of Kraken |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/mark-giordano-an-easy-decision-to-be-first-captain-of-seattle-326744594 |access-date=April 4, 2024 |website=National Hockey League}} The team also named four alternate captains—Adam Larsson, Jordan Eberle, Yanni Gourde, and Jaden Schwartz.{{cite web |last1=Condor |first1=Bob |date=October 11, 2021 |title=Giordano Wears the 'C' |url=https://www.nhl.com/kraken/news/kraken-name-first-set-of-captains-giordano-eberle-larsson-schwartz-gourde/c-326739756 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230219033019/https://www.nhl.com/kraken/news/kraken-name-first-set-of-captains-giordano-eberle-larsson-schwartz-gourde/c-326739756 |archive-date=February 19, 2023 |access-date=February 19, 2023 |website=National Hockey League}} The Kraken played their first regular season game the next day, a 4–3 loss to the Vegas Golden Knights,{{Cite web |last=Webster |first=Danny |date=October 13, 2021 |title=Kraken lose first NHL game to Golden Knights |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/seattle-kraken-vegas-golden-knights-game-recap-326662970 |access-date=September 8, 2024 |website=National Hockey League}} where Ryan Donato scored the first goal in team history.{{Cite web |last=Ellis |first=Steven |date=October 12, 2021 |title=Ryan Donato Scores First Goal in Seattle Kraken History |url=https://thehockeynews.com/news/ryan-donato-scores-first-goal-in-seattle-kraken-history |access-date=March 23, 2024 |website=The Hockey News}} The franchise's first win came in their next game two days later, when they defeated the Nashville Predators 4–3.{{cite web |last=Stanley |first=Robby |date=October 14, 2021 |title=Kraken get first win, hold off Predators |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/seattle-kraken-nashville-predators-game-recap/c-326716222 |access-date=October 14, 2021 |website=National Hockey League}} The Kraken played their first home game at Climate Pledge Arena (formerly KeyArena) on October 23 in what would be a 4–2 loss to the fellow Pacific Northwest team Vancouver Canucks.{{Cite web |last=McIntyre |first=Iain |date=October 23, 2021 |title=First clash between Kraken, Canucks represents rebirth of rivalry |url=https://www.sportsnet.ca/nhl/first-clash-kraken-canucks-represents-rebirth-rivalry/ |access-date=March 23, 2024 |website=Sportsnet}} Prior to the game, the team retired jersey number 32, in recognition of the franchise being the 32nd to join the NHL and in honor of the 32,000 fans who placed deposits for tickets on the first possible day.{{Cite web |last=O'Leary |first=Dan |date=October 24, 2021 |title=Kraken retire No. 32 before home opener to honor fans |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/seattle-kraken-retire-number-32-before-home-opener-327186108 |access-date=March 23, 2024 |website=National Hockey League}} The team picked up their first home win on October 26, against the Montreal Canadiens.{{Cite web |last=Eide |first=Andy |date=October 27, 2021 |title=Tanev scores twice, Kraken defeat Canadiens for first home win |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/montreal-canadiens-seattle-kraken-game-recap-327001288 |access-date=September 8, 2024 |website=National Hockey League}} On February 2, 2022, Grubauer recorded the franchise's first shutout, making 19 saves in a 3–0 victory against the New York Islanders.{{Cite web |last=Compton |first=Brian |date=February 2, 2022 |title=Grubauer makes 19 saves, Kraken shut out Islanders |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/seattle-kraken-new-york-islanders-game-recap-330285648 |access-date=March 23, 2024 |website=National Hockey League}} On March 20, the Kraken's captaincy became vacant after Giordano was traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs.{{cite news |date=March 20, 2022 |title=Maple Leafs acquire veteran D Giordano from Kraken |url=https://www.tsn.ca/toronto-maple-leafs-acquire-veteran-d-mark-giordano-from-seattle-kraken-1.1773727 |access-date=August 29, 2024 |work=The Sports Network}} The team was eliminated from playoff contention on March 30 following a 3–0 loss to the Golden Knights.{{Cite web |last=Eide |first=Andy |date=March 30, 2022 |title=Kraken lose to Golden Knights, out of playoff contention in first season |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/vegas-golden-knights-seattle-kraken-game-recap-332389690 |access-date=March 23, 2024 |website=National Hockey League}} The Kraken finished their inaugural season in last place of the Pacific Division with a record of 27–49–6.{{Cite web |title=2021–22 Seattle Kraken Schedule |url=https://www.hockey-reference.com/teams/SEA/2022_games.html |access-date=September 8, 2024 |website=Hockey-Reference}}{{efn|name=Record|NHL teams' records are arranged win-loss-overtime loss, wins earning two points, losses zero, and overtime losses one.}}

File: Matty Beniers 2023-11-13 (cropped).jpeg

The Kraken's second season was far superior to their first in terms of winning. On July 13, 2022, the team signed goaltender Martin Jones to a one-year contract.{{Cite web |last=Sadler |first=Emily |date=July 13, 2022 |title=Kraken sign goaltender Martin Jones to one-year, $2M deal |url=https://www.sportsnet.ca/nhl/article/kraken-sign-goaltender-martin-jones-to-one-year-2m-deal/ |access-date=September 8, 2024 |website=Sportsnet}} In January 2023, Jones backstopped the Kraken through seven games of an eight-game win streak. While doing so, the franchise became the first team to win all seven games of a seven-game road trip.{{Cite web |last=Miles |first=Bruce |date=January 14, 2023 |title=Kraken score 8, cruise past Blackhawks to sweep 7-game road trip |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/seattle-kraken-chicago-blackhawks-game-recap-339532204 |access-date=March 23, 2024 |website=National Hockey League}} On April 6, the Kraken clinched their first playoff berth, qualifying for the 2023 Stanley Cup playoffs.{{Cite web |last=Robinson |first=Alan |date=April 6, 2023 |title=Kraken clinch playoff berth for 1st time with win against Coyotes |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/arizona-coyotes-seattle-kraken-game-recap-343082084 |access-date=March 23, 2024 |website=National Hockey League}} The team's record of 46–28–8 and 100 points placed the team fourth in the Pacific Division, thus achieving the first wild card playoff spot in the Western Conference.{{Cite web |title=2022–23 Seattle Kraken Schedule |url=https://www.hockey-reference.com/teams/SEA/2023_games.html |access-date=September 8, 2024 |website=Hockey-Reference}}{{Cite web |last=Didion |first=Alex |date=April 18, 2023 |title=NHL Playoffs, explained: what to know about Kraken's first Stanley Cup pursuit |url=https://www.king5.com/article/sports/nhl/kraken/nhl-playoffs-explained-seattle-kraken/281-918753fa-1f30-4eda-928d-95b3a1c7fe8d |access-date=September 8, 2024 |website=KING-TV}} On April 30, the Kraken defeated the Colorado Avalanche in the opening best-of-seven playoff series, becoming the first expansion team in NHL history to win their first playoff series against the defending Stanley Cup champion.{{Cite web |last=Slusher |first=Keenan |date=May 1, 2023 |title=Kraken beat Avalanche 2–1, eliminate defending Stanley Cup champions |url=https://www.nbcsports.com/nhl/news/kraken-beat-avalanche-2-1-eliminate-defending-stanley-cup-champions |access-date=March 23, 2024 |website=NBC Sports}} The team's playoff run came to an end after the second round where they lost to the Dallas Stars in seven games.{{cite news |last=Myers |first=Tracey |date=May 16, 2023 |title=Kraken eliminated from playoffs after playing from behind too often |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/why-seattle-is-eliminated-from-stanley-cup-playoffs/c-344421536 |access-date=May 31, 2023 |work=National Hockey League}} On June 26, at the NHL Awards ceremony, Matty Beniers was named the winner of the Calder Memorial Trophy for being the NHL rookie of the year.{{Cite web |last=Satriano |first=David |date=June 26, 2023 |title=Beniers of Kraken wins Calder Trophy as NHL rookie of the year |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/kraken-matty-beniers-wins-calder-trophy-345018402 |access-date=March 24, 2024 |website=National Hockey League}}

The Kraken struggled offensively in their third season, ranking 29th in the league in goals, with only 217.{{Cite web |title=2023–24 Seattle Kraken Roster, Stats, Injuries, Scores, Results, Shootouts |url=https://www.hockey-reference.com/teams/SEA/2024.html |access-date=September 8, 2024 |website=Hockey-Reference}} In December and January, following an eight-game skid, goaltender Joey Daccord started in eight out of nine games of a franchise record nine-game win streak.{{Cite web |last=Merz |first=Craig |date=January 13, 2024 |title=Kraken defeat Blue Jackets for 9th straight win, extend point streak to 13 |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/seattle-kraken-columbus-blue-jackets-game-recap-january-13 |access-date=April 19, 2024 |website=National Hockey League}} In the midst of the streak, Daccord started in goal for the Kraken during the 2024 Winter Classic, where he achieved the first-ever shutout in Winter Classic history with a 3–0 victory over the Vegas Golden Knights.{{cite web |last1=Rosen |first1=Dan |date=January 1, 2024 |title=Daccord has 1st shutout in Winter Classic history, Kraken top Golden Knights |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/vegas-golden-knights-seattle-kraken-game-recap-winter-classic-january-1 |access-date=April 19, 2024 |website=National Hockey League}} The team was eliminated from playoff contention on April 3, following a 5–2 loss to the Los Angeles Kings.{{cite web |last1=Greenspan |first1=Dan |date=April 2, 2024 |title=Moore scores hat trick, Kings defeat Kraken to gain in wild card |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/seattle-kraken-los-angeles-kings-game-recap-april-3 |access-date=April 19, 2024 |website=National Hockey League}} The Kraken finished their season with a 34–35–13 record, enough for sixth place in their division. On April 29, following the end of the season, head coach Dave Hakstol was fired,{{cite web |last1=Clark |first1=Ryan S. |date=April 29, 2024 |title=Kraken fire coach Dave Hakstol after missing playoffs |url=https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/40051232/kraken-fire-coach-dave-hakstol-missing-playoffs |access-date=July 11, 2024 |website=ESPN}} being replaced by Dan Bylsma on May 28.{{cite web |date=May 28, 2024 |title=Bylsma hired as coach of Kraken, replaces Hakstol |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/dan-bylsma-named-seattle-coach |access-date=May 28, 2024 |website=National Hockey League}}

In July 2024, the team made history by hiring Jessica Campbell as the NHL's first female assistant coach.{{cite web |date=October 6, 2024 |title= Campbell ready to make history with Kraken as 1st woman to coach in NHL |url= https://www.nhl.com/news/jessica-campbell-set-to-become-first-woman-to-coach-in-nhl-with-seattle |access-date=November 14, 2024 |website=National Hockey League}} In October, the Kraken named Jordan Eberle the second captain in franchise history.{{cite web |date=October 8, 2024 |title=Eberle named Kraken captain, replaces Giordano |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/jordan-eberle-named-captain-of-seattle-kraken |access-date=October 8, 2024 |website=National Hockey League}}

File:Climate Pledge Arena in Kraken configuration - view from south end.jpg

The Kraken play their home games at Climate Pledge Arena.{{cite news |date=June 25, 2020 |title=NHL Seattle expansion team to play at Climate Pledge Arena |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/climate-pledge-arena-home-to-seattle-nhl-expansion-team/c-317264152 |access-date=August 5, 2020 |website=National Hockey League}} The arena, at the Seattle Center, is a redevelopment of the former KeyArena.{{cite news |last=Baker |first=Geoff |date=April 18, 2019 |title=KeyArena renovation project now to exceed $900 million, with reopening pushed back |url=https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/hockey/keyarena-renovation-project-now-pegged-at-900-million-with-reopening-pushed-back-to-june-2021/ |url-access=limited |access-date=June 20, 2019 |website=The Seattle Times}} On June 25, 2020, Amazon bought the naming rights to KeyArena and chose to rename the venue due to their environmental goals.{{Cite web |date=June 25, 2020 |title=Amazon secures naming rights to Seattle arena, now Climate Pledge Arena |url=https://www.nhl.com/kraken/news/amazon-naming-rights-seattle-center-arena-climate-pledge-arena-319483836 |access-date=September 1, 2024 |website=National Hockey League}} The venue has 17,151 seats in its ice hockey configuration.{{cite news |last=Baker |first=Geoff |date=October 29, 2021 |title=Analysis: After first week, Climate Pledge Arena renovation gets a thumbs-up from Kraken fans |url=https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/kraken/analysis-after-first-week-climate-pledge-arena-renovation-gets-a-thumbs-up-from-kraken-fans/ |url-access=limited |access-date=May 13, 2023 |work=The Seattle Times}} Vince Dunn scored the first Kraken goal in the arena's history on October 23, 2021.{{cite web |date=October 23, 2021 |title=Expansion Kraken fall in home debut 4–2 to Vancouver |url=https://www.espn.com/nhl/recap/_/gameId/401349211 |access-date=October 24, 2021 |website=ESPN}} The Kraken's first shutout win at home was a 3–0 victory over the San Jose Sharks on April 29, 2022, the final home game of their inaugural season.{{cite news |last1=Eide |first1=Andy |date=April 29, 2022 |title=Kraken shut out Sharks in last home game of inaugural NHL season |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/san-jose-sharks-seattle-kraken-game-recap/c-333543716 |access-date=May 3, 2022 |work=National Hockey League}}

File:Kraken Community Iceplex east entrance, Sept. 2021.jpg, the team's training facility]]

The team's primary practice facility, named the Kraken Community Iceplex, is located at Northgate Station (formerly Northgate Mall) and was opened in September 2021. The facility has three rinks and is open to the public.{{cite news |last=Baker |first=Geoff |date=June 30, 2021 |title=Seattle's NHL practice facility named Kraken Community Iceplex after partnership deal with Starbucks |url=https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/kraken/nhl-practice-facility-will-be-called-kraken-community-iceplex-in-new-deal-between-starbucks-and-team/ |url-access=limited |access-date=August 3, 2021 |work=The Seattle Times}} In 2024, a second community ice rink was proposed for a former park-and-ride lot in Kirkland on the Eastside.{{cite news |last=Oxley |first=Dyer |date=March 20, 2024 |title=NHL on the Eastside? New hockey arena discussed by Seattle Kraken and Kirkland |url=https://www.kuow.org/stories/nhl-on-the-eastside-new-hockey-arena-discussed-by-seattle-kraken-and-kirkland |access-date=March 21, 2024 |work=KUOW}}

The Kraken's three home preseason games prior to the 2021–22 season were held at Spokane Arena in Spokane, Angel of the Winds Arena in Everett, and the accesso ShoWare Center in Kent, arenas home to Western Hockey League (WHL) teams, in an event known as the 3-Rink Rush. Tickets for the games were sold by the host WHL teams.{{Cite web |date=July 9, 2021 |title=Seattle Kraken Announce Preseason Schedule for Inaugural Season |url=https://www.nhl.com/kraken/news/seattle-kraken-announce-preseason-schedule-for-inaugural-season-325618324 |access-date=September 1, 2024 |website=National Hockey League}}{{cite web |last=Condor |first=Bob |date=July 9, 2021 |title=On the Road to Season Start |url=https://www.nhl.com/kraken/news/on-the-road-to-season-start/c-325615364 |access-date=September 1, 2024 |website=National Hockey League}}

The Kraken's goal horn is from the ferry boat MV Hyak.{{cite news |last1=Pilling |first1=Nathan |date=December 17, 2021 |title=Ferry Hyak's whistle lives on at Climate Pledge Arena as a loud bit of history |url=https://www.kitsapsun.com/story/news/2021/12/17/hyaks-whistle-lives-climate-pledge-arena-kraken-goal-horn/8916575002/ |access-date=April 16, 2022 |work=Kitsap Sun}} The team plays the Nirvana song "Lithium" after every Kraken goal at home; the song was chosen due to Nirvana's importance to Seattle popular culture.{{Cite news |last=Clark |first=Ryan S. |date=October 23, 2021 |title=Ferry horns and Nirvana: As Kraken open Climate Pledge Arena, here's what you can expect to hear |url=https://theathletic.com/2907835/2021/10/23/ferry-horns-and-nirvana-as-kraken-open-climate-pledge-arena-heres-what-you-can-expect-to-hear/ |url-access=limited |access-date=November 7, 2021 |website=The Athletic}}

After their first win at home against the Montreal Canadiens on October 26, 2021, the Kraken featured a new postgame tradition during the "Three Stars of the Game" ceremony. Instead of the honored players tossing conventional souvenir pucks or sticks to the fans, they throw a plush toy salmon into the crowd to mimic Seattle's Pike Place Market fish toss and to honor the significance of wild-caught salmon to the state of Washington.{{Cite news |last=Wyshynski |first=Greg |date=October 28, 2021 |title=Seattle Kraken 'Three Stars' postgame ceremony features players tossing plush salmon to fans |url=https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/32494447/seattle-kraken-three-stars-postgame-ceremony-features-players-tossing-plush-salmon-fans |access-date=March 21, 2024 |work=ESPN}}

Rod Masters, the organist from the 1977 film Slap Shot, became the organist for the Kraken starting with the team's January 1, 2022, home game against the New York Islanders. As Climate Pledge Arena does not have an organ, Masters played music using electronic keyboards.{{cite news |last1=Booth |first1=Tim |date=March 3, 2022 |title='Slap Shot' organist finds new career with expansion Kraken |url=https://apnews.com/article/nhl-entertainment-sports-arts-and-entertainment-movies-d956d6a8a6a2ca8fb96b1d105ebfea73 |access-date=March 3, 2022 |work=Associated Press}} Masters retired after the 2021–22 season, and the Kraken hired 29-year-old Ben Wooley to replace him.{{Cite news |last=Baker |first=Geoff |date=October 14, 2022 |title=With an offseason to prepare, Kraken expect better game-day experience for fans |url=https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/kraken/with-an-offseason-to-prepare-kraken-expect-better-game-day-experience-for-fans/ |url-access=limited |access-date=December 21, 2022 |website=The Seattle Times |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221207112049/https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/kraken/with-an-offseason-to-prepare-kraken-expect-better-game-day-experience-for-fans/ |archive-date=December 7, 2022}}

On July 23, 2020, the team held an event to reveal their team branding. The franchise's promotional materials state that the team's "Kraken" name was adopted to honor the maritime culture of Seattle.{{cite news |last=Cotsonika |first=Nicholas J. |date=July 23, 2020 |title=Seattle Kraken reveal nickname for NHL expansion team |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/seattle-kraken-nickname-for-nhl-expansion-team/c-317588092 |access-date=September 1, 2024 |website=National Hockey League}} The Pacific Northwest region also has a history of Scandinavian immigrants and ancestry, further connecting Seattle to the Nordic origin of the "Kraken" mythology. The colors chosen for the team's logo were ice blue, boundless blue, shadow blue and red alert.{{Cite web |date=July 23, 2020 |title=How Seattle Kraken logo came to life |url=https://www.king5.com/article/sports/nhl/kraken/seattle-kraken-nhl-logo-uniform-colors-hockey/281-1e864f8d-50a0-478c-ae91-e02d5532e82d |access-date=September 16, 2024 |website=KING-TV}} For the team's jerseys, deep sea blue served as the base color with the logo's colors as accent colors. The first time Kraken uniforms were seen on players was at the 2021 NHL expansion draft.{{cite news |last=Ledra |first=Cristina |date=July 21, 2021 |title=Driedger, Eberle first to model Kraken's home, away jerseys |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/driedger-eberle-model-kraken-jerseys/c-325724746 |access-date=August 20, 2021 |work=National Hockey League}}

On October 20, 2022, The Kraken unveiled their "Reverse Retro" uniform for the 2022–23 season, featuring an ice blue base with deep sea blue striping. The design was a callback to the Seattle Ironmen, a defunct Pacific Coast Hockey League (PCHL) team that existed in the 1940s.{{cite news |last=Merola |first=Lauren |date=October 20, 2022 |title=NHL Reverse Retro jerseys for all 32 teams unveiled by adidas |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/2022-adidas-nhl-reverse-retro-jerseys-reveal/c-336511528 |access-date=October 20, 2022 |website=National Hockey League}}

For the 2024 Winter Classic, the Kraken wore a uniform inspired by the Seattle Metropolitans, a former Stanley Cup-competing team which won the championship in 1917. The deep sea blue uniform features a red "S" similar to the Metropolitans' crest, but shaped to the current "S" logo of the Kraken, with the team name written inside. Ice blue, vintage white and deep sea blue stripes were added to the body and sleeves.{{cite news |last=Satriano |first=David |date=November 22, 2023 |title=Winter Classic jerseys for Kraken, Golden Knights unveiled |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/winter-classic-jerseys-for-seattle-and-vegas-unveiled |access-date=November 23, 2023 |website=National Hockey League}} The uniform was officially unveiled on November 22, 2023,{{Cite web |last=Satriano |first=David |date=November 22, 2023 |title=Winter Classic jerseys for Kraken, Golden Knights unveiled |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/winter-classic-jerseys-for-seattle-and-vegas-unveiled |access-date=September 16, 2024 |website=National Hockey League}} but was leaked four days earlier when players from the National Basketball Association's Utah Jazz walked into their home arena wearing it.{{Cite web |last=Shefte |first=Kate |date=November 17, 2023 |title=Wait, did Utah Jazz just leak Kraken's Winter Classic jersey design? |url=https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/kraken/wait-did-utah-jazz-just-leak-krakens-winter-classic-jersey-design/ |url-access=limited |access-date=November 29, 2024 |website=The Seattle Times}}

{{main|Buoy (mascot)}}

File:KrakenBuoy.jpg game]]

Buoy, a sea troll, is the Kraken's mascot. He is said to be a nephew of the Fremont Troll, a sculpture in Fremont. Buoy was introduced prior to a preseason home game against the Vancouver Canucks on October 1, 2022. The Kraken had intended to introduce Buoy around Christmas during the 2021–22 season, but due to game postponements related to the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant, the team decided to wait until prior to the 2022–23 season instead.{{cite news |last1=Baker |first1=Geoff |date=October 1, 2022 |title=Kraken unveil new mascot, a troll named Buoy |url=https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/kraken/kraken-unveil-new-mascot-a-troll-named-buoy/ |url-access=limited |access-date=October 1, 2022 |work=The Seattle Times}} Reaction to Buoy's debut was polarized, with many observers expressing a strong like or dislike for the mascot.{{cite news |last1=Clarke |first1=Mary |date=October 2, 2022 |title=The Seattle Kraken's new unsettling troll mascot Buoy has confused hockey fans |url=https://ftw.usatoday.com/lists/seattle-kraken-mascot-buoy-twitter-reacts |access-date=October 24, 2022 |work=USA Today |department=For The Win}}

During the 2021–22 season, in the absence of an official mascot, the Kraken promoted a "team dog" named Davy Jones. The dog, a four-month-old husky mix rescue dog introduced on January 17, 2022, socialized with fans at home games as he trained to be a therapy dog.{{Cite web |last=Regimbal |first=Alec |date=January 24, 2022 |title=Meet Davy Jones, the Seattle Kraken's team dog |url=https://www.seattlepi.com/sports/hockey/article/Meet-the-Seattle-Kraken-team-dog-16795332.php |access-date=November 29, 2024 |website=Seattle Post-Intelligencer}}

{{Further|List of Seattle Kraken broadcasters}}

File:John_Forslund.jpg has been the Kraken's play-by-play announcer for all three of their seasons.]]

Kraken games are televised through the Kraken Hockey Network (KHN), which includes over-the-air television stations in Seattle (KING-TV and KONG), Spokane (KREM and KSKN), and Yakima (KAPP and KVEW), Washington; Eugene (KEVU and KLSR-TV) and Portland (KGW), Oregon; Anchorage (KAUU) and Juneau (KYEX-LD), Alaska; and Boise (KTVB) and Twin Falls (KTFT), Idaho. Games can also be streamed locally on Amazon Prime Video.{{Cite web |last=Condor |first=Bob |date=September 16, 2024 |title=Introducing Kraken Hockey Network |url=https://www.nhl.com/kraken/news/introducing-kraken-hockey-network-bn?fbclid=IwY2xjawFVPA9leHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHbbPmqA6qtZ_kLY3sMFC4q4aWX4Z4fcbqBZjN8viD0E_1tad6E31VcrLvw_aem_lj2yUMt9B4b57-cYceWRfw |access-date=September 16, 2024 |website=National Hockey League}} Games were televised regionally on Root Sports Northwest for the team's first three seasons.{{Cite web |last=Baker |first=Geoff |date=April 25, 2024 |title=Kraken leaving ROOT Sports for new TV and streaming deals |url=https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/kraken/kraken-leaving-root-sports-for-new-tv-and-streaming-deals/ |url-access=limited |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240425163043/https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/kraken/kraken-leaving-root-sports-for-new-tv-and-streaming-deals/ |archive-date=April 25, 2024 |access-date=April 25, 2024 |website=The Seattle Times}}

Former Hartford Whalers and Carolina Hurricanes broadcaster John Forslund serves as the team's television play-by-play announcer.{{Cite news |last=Clark |first=Ryan S. |date=January 26, 2021 |title=Seattle Kraken hire John Forslund and announce TV broadcast deal |url=https://theathletic.com/2345628/2021/01/26/seattle-kraken-forslund-root-sports/ |url-access=limited |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240322030906/https://theathletic.com/2345628/2021/01/26/seattle-kraken-forslund-root-sports/ |archive-date=March 22, 2024 |access-date=January 26, 2021 |website=The Athletic}}{{cite news |last1=McIntosh |first1=Andrew |date=January 26, 2021 |title=NHL's Seattle Kraken signs multiyear TV broadcast rights deal |url=https://www.bizjournals.com/seattle/news/2021/01/26/nhls-seattle-kraken-signs-tv-broadcast-rights-deal.html |url-access=subscription |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210712214045/https://www.bizjournals.com/seattle/news/2021/01/26/nhls-seattle-kraken-signs-tv-broadcast-rights-deal.html |archive-date=July 12, 2021 |access-date=January 30, 2021 |work=Puget Sound Business Journal}} J. T. Brown is the Kraken's primary television color analyst.{{cite news |last1=Wyshynski |first1=Greg |date=June 21, 2021 |title=Brown to retire, join Kraken as television analyst |url=https://www.espn.com/nhl/story/_/id/31680648/jt-brown-retiring-professional-hockey-joining-seattle-kraken-television-analyst |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240725182737/https://www.espn.com/login/responder/v4/index.html?clientId=ESPN-ONESITE.WEB&environment=PROD |archive-date=July 25, 2024 |access-date=June 21, 2021 |work=ESPN}} In August 2022, the team hired Eddie Olczyk to be a television analyst alongside Forslund and Brown.{{Cite web |last=Baker |first=Geoff |date=July 18, 2022 |title=Eddie Olczyk joining Kraken's TV broadcast team |url=https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/kraken/report-eddie-olczyk-joining-krakens-tv-broadcast-team/ |url-access=limited |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230923075405/https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/kraken/report-eddie-olczyk-joining-krakens-tv-broadcast-team/ |archive-date=September 23, 2023 |access-date=August 13, 2022 |website=The Seattle Times}}

The television broadcast for the Kraken's February 17, 2022, game against the Winnipeg Jets featured Everett Fitzhugh as play-by-play announcer and Brown as color commentator, making up the first all-Black broadcast duo in NHL history.{{cite news |last1=Clark |first1=Ryan S. |date=February 9, 2022 |title=How J.T. Brown and Everett Fitzhugh became the NHL's first all-Black broadcast duo |url=https://theathletic.com/3117682/2022/02/09/how-j-t-brown-and-everett-fitzhugh-became-the-nhls-first-all-black-broadcast-duo/ |url-access=limited |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240725182737/https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/3117682/2022/02/09/how-j-t-brown-and-everett-fitzhugh-became-the-nhls-first-all-black-broadcast-duo/ |archive-date=July 25, 2024 |access-date=February 10, 2022 |work=The Athletic}}

Kraken games are broadcast on KJR-FM 93.3 and KJR 950 AM, the flagship stations of the Kraken Audio Network. During a schedule conflict, some games may be heard on 96.5 KJAQ.{{cite news |last1=Baker |first1=Geoff |date=March 3, 2021 |title=Sports Radio KJR named Kraken flagship station |url=https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/kraken/sports-radio-kjr-named-kraken-flagship-station/ |url-access=limited |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221214141556/https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/kraken/sports-radio-kjr-named-kraken-flagship-station/ |archive-date=December 14, 2022 |access-date=March 4, 2021 |work=The Seattle Times}} The Kraken Audio Network also includes several other stations outside Seattle.{{cite web |date=April 12, 2022 |title=Kraken Affiliate List |url=https://933kjr.iheart.com/featured/seattle-kraken/content/2022-04-12-kraken-affiliate-list |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231002050818/https://933kjr.iheart.com/featured/seattle-kraken/content/2022-04-12-kraken-affiliate-list/ |archive-date=October 2, 2023 |access-date=July 20, 2022 |website=iHeartRadio}}

Everett Fitzhugh serves as the team's primary radio play-by-play announcer. He is the first Black full-time play-by-play announcer in NHL history.{{cite web |last1=Douglas |first1=William |date=August 7, 2020 |title=Kraken set to have first Black full-time NHL team play-by-play announcer |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/everett-fitzhugh-named-seattle-kraken-play-by-play-broadcaster/c-318301588 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230405094236/https://www.nhl.com/news/everett-fitzhugh-named-seattle-kraken-play-by-play-broadcaster/c-318301588 |archive-date=April 5, 2023 |access-date=August 8, 2020 |website=National Hockey League}} Former NHL player and Vancouver Canucks broadcaster Dave Tomlinson served as Fitzhugh's color analyst for the Kraken's first two seasons,{{Cite web |author=Johnston |first=Patrick |date=October 23, 2021 |title=From the Canucks to the Kraken: Dave Tomlinson jumps back into radio |url=https://theprovince.com/sports/hockey/nhl/from-the-canucks-to-the-kraken-dave-tomlinson-jumps-back-into-radio |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211102002034/https://theprovince.com/sports/hockey/nhl/from-the-canucks-to-the-kraken-dave-tomlinson-jumps-back-into-radio |archive-date=November 2, 2021 |access-date=November 1, 2021 |website=The Province}} before resigning in August 2023 to take a new broadcasting job in Canada.{{cite news |last1=Baker |first1=Geoff |date=August 17, 2023 |title=Search for new Kraken radio analyst gears up in wake of Dave Tomlinson departure |url=https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/kraken/search-for-new-kraken-radio-analyst-gears-up-in-wake-of-dave-tomlinson-departure/ |url-access=limited |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240430191808/https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/kraken/search-for-new-kraken-radio-analyst-gears-up-in-wake-of-dave-tomlinson-departure/ |archive-date=April 30, 2024 |access-date=September 4, 2023 |work=The Seattle Times}} The Kraken then hired former Seattle Thunderbirds forward and Everett Silvertips commentator Al Kinisky to replace him.{{Cite web |date=September 26, 2023 |title=Al Kinisky Named Kraken Radio Color Analyst |url=https://www.nhl.com/kraken/news/al-kinisky-named-kraken-radio-color-analyst |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240404205917/https://www.nhl.com/kraken/news/al-kinisky-named-kraken-radio-color-analyst |archive-date=April 4, 2024 |access-date=July 23, 2024 |website=National Hockey League}} Mike Benton is the studio host for all radio broadcasts, serving pre-game, intermission, and post-game coverage.{{cite web|url=https://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/veteran-play-by-play-voice-to-call-select-thunderbirds-games-on-fox-13/n-5894820|title=Veteran Play-By-Play Voice to Call Select Thunderbirds Games on FOX 13+|publisher=OurSports Central|date=October 31, 2022|website=OurSportsCentral.com|accessdate=February 26, 2025}}

As is standard practice for NHL teams, the Kraken maintain affiliations with minor league teams for player development. The Kraken's primary affiliate plays in the American Hockey League (AHL), which feeds directly into the NHL, and have another affiliate in the ECHL, which exists a tier below in the development system.{{cite web |last1=Peters |first1=Chris |title=NHL Minor League Hockey Team Affiliate List 2024-2025 |url=https://www.flohockey.tv/articles/12756993-nhl-minor-league-hockey-team-affiliate-list-2024-2025 |website=flohockey.tv |publisher=FloHockey |access-date=March 31, 2025 |date=September 12, 2024}}

The Coachella Valley Firebirds, the AHL affiliate of the Kraken, are based in Thousand Palms, California.{{cite web |date=September 30, 2019 |title=AHL expanding to Palm Springs in 2021–22 |url=https://theahl.com/ahl-expansion-palm-springs |access-date=October 13, 2019 |website=American Hockey League |archive-date=February 27, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230227063419/https://theahl.com/ahl-expansion-palm-springs |url-status=dead }} After the Kraken were approved into the NHL by the Board of Governors, the team's ownership group began making plans for acquiring a minor league affiliate in the AHL. By early 2019, they had narrowed it down to promoting the ECHL's Idaho Steelheads in Boise, Idaho, or a new expansion team in the area of Palm Springs, California. On June 26, 2019, it was reported the Seattle ownership group had chosen Palm Springs as the site for Seattle's AHL affiliate.{{cite news |last=Baker |first=Geoff |date=June 26, 2019 |title=NHL Seattle chooses Palm Springs as site for new AHL farm team |url=https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/hockey/nhl-seattle-chooses-palm-springs-as-site-for-new-ahl-farm-team/ |url-access=limited |access-date=August 30, 2024 |website=The Seattle Times}} The expansion franchise was approved by the AHL Board of Governors on September 30, 2019, with plans to begin play in the 2021–22 season.{{cite web |date=September 30, 2019 |title=AHL expanding to Palm Springs in 2021–22 |url=https://theahl.com/ahl-expansion-palm-springs |access-date=August 30, 2024 |website=American Hockey League |archive-date=February 27, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230227063419/https://theahl.com/ahl-expansion-palm-springs |url-status=dead }} Delays associated with the construction of an arena in the Palm Springs area caused the team's debut to be pushed back to the 2022–23 season. On November 5, 2021, the new team revealed its name, the Coachella Valley Firebirds, as well as its logos and colors, at a ceremony held on the construction site of their new arena.{{Cite web |date=November 5, 2021 |title=New Coachella Valley hockey team will be called Firebirds, with red, orange and black colors |url=https://www.desertsun.com/story/sports/hockey/2021/11/05/coachella-valley-firebirds-new-hockey-team-name-logo-colors-revealed/6251050001/ |access-date=August 30, 2024 |website=The Desert Sun}} The Firebirds reached the Calder Cup finals in each of their first two seasons.{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=June 8, 2024 |title=Firebirds repeat as Western Conference champions |url=https://theahl.com/firebirds-repeat-as-western-conference-champions |access-date=August 31, 2024 |website=American Hockey League}}

As the Firebirds were not ready for the 2021–22 season, Seattle affiliated with the Charlotte Checkers, sharing the team with the Florida Panthers.{{Cite press release |date=July 28, 2021 |title=Checkers Add Seattle Kraken as NHL Affiliate |url=https://charlottecheckers.com/articles/features/checkers-add-seattle-kraken-as-nhl-affiliate |access-date=August 30, 2024 |website=Charlotte Checkers}} After clinching their division,{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=April 23, 2022 |title=Checkers beat Bruins to clinch Atlantic Division Title |url=https://www.wbtv.com/2022/04/24/checkers-beat-bruins-clinch-atlantic-division-title/ |access-date=September 9, 2024 |website=WBTV}} the Checkers advanced to the division finals of the 2022 Calder Cup playoffs, where they lost to the Springfield Thunderbirds.{{Cite web |last=Niedzielski |first=Nicholas |date=May 28, 2022 |title=Springfield Ends Checkers Season with Sweep |url=https://charlottecheckers.com/game-recaps/springfield-ends-checkers-season-with-sweep |access-date=September 9, 2024 |website= |publisher=Charlotte Checkers}}

For their inaugural season, the Kraken's ECHL affiliate was the Texas-based Allen Americans.{{Cite press release |date=October 1, 2021 |title=Americans Enter Affiliation Agreement with Seattle Kraken |url=https://www.echl.com/en/news/2021/10/americans-enter-affiliation-agreement-with-seattle-kraken |access-date=October 1, 2021 |publisher=ECHL}} They were replaced by the Kansas City Mavericks in that capacity for the 2022–23 season.{{cite press release |date=July 28, 2022 |title=Mavericks announce new affiliation with the Seattle Kraken |url=https://www.kcmavericks.com/en/news/mavericks-announce-new-affiliation-with-the-seattle-kraken |access-date=July 28, 2022 |website= |publisher=Kansas City Mavericks}}

{{main|List of Seattle Kraken seasons}}

This is a list of the seasons completed by the Kraken.{{cite web |title=Seattle Kraken - Season-by-Season Record |url=https://records.nhl.com/sea/franchises/seattle-kraken/season-by-season-record |accessdate=November 28, 2023 |website=National Hockey League Records}}

Key: GP = Games played, W = Wins, L = Losses, OTL = Overtime Losses, Pts = Points, GF = Goals for, GA = Goals against

{{Main|List of Seattle Kraken players}}

{{Seattle Kraken roster}}

The Kraken are owned by Seattle Hockey Partners, an organization led by Jerry Bruckheimer, Tod Leiweke, and Samantha Holloway, daughter of original team founder David Bonderman.{{Cite web |last=Denver |first=Jim |date=November 7, 2021 |title=The Hollywood 'power forward' who helped put the Kraken on ice |url=https://www.king5.com/article/entertainment/television/programs/beneath-the-surface/the-hollywood-power-forward-who-helped-put-the-kraken-on-ice/281-78b3bff0-7ec3-4f7f-87de-568c1191c9b5 |access-date=November 29, 2024 |publisher=KING 5 News}}{{Cite web |last=Schram |first=Carol |date=March 17, 2022 |title=Samantha Holloway Takes Over As Chair Of Seattle Kraken Executive Committee |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/carolschram/2022/03/17/samantha-holloway-takes-over-as-chair-of-seattle-kraken-executive-committee/ |access-date=January 19, 2025 |work=Forbes}}{{Cite web |last=Puccio |first=Anthony |date=December 12, 2022 |title=Everything You Need To Know About Samantha Holloway, Seattle Kraken Co-owner |url=https://boardroom.tv/samantha-holloway-seattle-kraken-owner/ |access-date=January 19, 2025 |publisher=Boardroom}} Other members of the ownership group include Adrian Hanauer (the majority owner of Seattle Sounders FC), Amazon CEO Andy Jassy, Chris Ackerley (son of one-time Seattle SuperSonics owner Barry Ackerley), and Tim Leiweke.{{cite news |last=Clark |first=Ryan S. |date=April 18, 2022 |title=How Marshawn Lynch and Macklemore came to own a piece of the Seattle Kraken |url=https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/3252700/2022/04/18/marshawn-lynch-macklemore-seattle-kraken/ |work=The Athletic |url-access=limited |accessdate=December 5, 2024}} In 2022, former Seattle Seahawks running back Marshawn Lynch and rapper Macklemore joined the partnership as minority owners.{{cite news |last1=Rivera |first1=Joe |date=April 18, 2022 |title=Marshawn Lynch's Kraken ownership, explained: Former Seahawks star's role with NHL expansion franchise |url=https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nhl/news/marshawn-lynch-kraken-nhl-ownership-seahawks/jcfbcaihvkcj1kumbply1nqr |work=The Sporting News |access-date=November 21, 2024}}

{{main|List of Seattle Kraken head coaches}}

• Dave Hakstol, 2021–2024{{cite web |title=Hakstol fired as Kraken coach, no replacement named |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/dave-hakstol-fired-by-seattle |access-date=April 29, 2024 |website=National Hockey League |date=April 29, 2024}}
• Dan Bylsma, 2024–2025
• Lane Lambert, 2025–present{{Cite web |title=Search is a Success: Lane Lambert New Coach |last=Condor |first=Bob |url=https://www.nhl.com/kraken/news/seattle-kraken-announce-lane-lambert-as-new-head-coach-bn |access-date=May 29, 2025 |website=NHL.com |date=May 29, 2025}}

• Ron Francis, 2019–2025
• Jason Botterill, 2025–present{{Cite web |title=Francis becomes Kraken president, Botterill new GM |url=https://www.nhl.com/kraken/news/francis-becomes-kraken-president-botterill-new-gm-bn |access-date=April 22, 2025 |website=National Hockey League |date=April 22, 2025}}

• Ron Francis, 2025–present, president of hockey operations

• Mark Giordano, 2021–2022
• Jordan Eberle, 2024–present

• 32 was retired on October 23, 2021, honoring the fans for 32,000 ticket deposits in one day and for being the NHL's newest{{snd}}32nd{{snd}}team.{{efn|This also reflects a Seattle tradition, with the Seattle Seahawks, of the National Football League, having previously retired the number 12 to honour their fans, referred to as the 12th Man by the team.{{Cite news |title=The Seattle Seahawks retired jersey No. 12 Wednesday, even... |work=United Press International |date=December 6, 1984 |url=https://www.upi.com/Archives/1984/12/06/The-Seattle-Seahawks-retired-jersey-No-12-Wednesday-even/5676471157200/ |access-date=January 4, 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201028042257/https://www.upi.com/Archives/1984/12/06/The-Seattle-Seahawks-retired-jersey-No-12-Wednesday-even/5676471157200/ |archive-date=October 28, 2020 |url-status=live}}}}
• 99 was retired by the NHL for all its member teams in honor of Wayne Gretzky at the 2000 National Hockey League All-Star Game.{{cite web |date=February 6, 2000 |title=Perfect setting: Gretzky's number retired before All-Star Game |url=http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/hockey/nhl/2000/nhl_allstar/news/2000/02/06/gretsky_99/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131112022319/http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/hockey/nhl/2000/nhl_allstar/news/2000/02/06/gretsky_99/ |archive-date=November 12, 2013 |access-date=September 5, 2024 |website=CNN/Sports Illustrated}}

{{Main|List of Seattle Kraken award winners}}

Matty Beniers won the Calder Memorial Trophy at the end of the Kraken's sophomore season after leading all rookies in points, with 57, and tying for the lead in goals among rookies, with 24.{{cite web |last=Satriano |first=David |date=May 3, 2023 |title=Beniers, Power, Skinner named Calder Trophy finalists |url=https://www.nhl.com/news/matty-beniers-owen-power-stuart-skinner-named-calder-trophy-finalists/c-344120976 |access-date=May 3, 2023 |website=National Hockey League}}

Calder Memorial Trophy

• 2022–23: Matty Beniers

The Kraken have four player awards that are given after each season. The Kraken's most valuable player, as voted on by Seattle-area media, receives the Pete Muldoon Award. The player with the most mentions in the Three Stars of the Game ceremony of each Kraken home game, computed using a points system, wins the Three Stars of the Year Award. The Guyle Fielder Award goes to the teammate who best exemplifies "perseverance, hustle, and dedication" as voted upon by their teammates and coaches. The Fan Favorite Award goes to a player who wins a fan vote.{{cite news |last1=Condor |first1=Bob |date=April 29, 2022 |title=Gourde, McCann, Grubauer Win First Player Awards |url=https://www.nhl.com/kraken/news/introducing-our-player-awards/c-333536276 |access-date=April 30, 2022 |work=National Hockey League}}{{cite news |last1=Baker |first1=Geoff |date=April 29, 2022 |title=Kraken thank the fans at Climate Pledge Arena by winning their final home game of season |url=https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/kraken/kraken-thank-the-fans-at-climate-pledge-arena-by-winning-their-final-home-game-of-season/ |url-access=limited |access-date=April 30, 2022 |work=The Seattle Times}}

{{col-begin}}

{{col-break}}

Pete Muldoon Award{{Cite web |title=Kraken Team Awards |url=https://www.nhl.com/kraken/fans/kraken-team-awards |access-date=September 10, 2024 |website=National Hockey League}}

• 2021–22: Jared McCann
• 2022–23: Vince Dunn
• 2023–24: Jared McCann
• 2024–25: Joey Daccord

Three Stars of the Year Award

• 2021–22: Philipp Grubauer
• 2022–23: Jared McCann
• 2023–24: Joey Daccord
• 2024–25: Joey Daccord

{{col-2}}

Guyle Fielder Award

• 2021–22: Yanni Gourde
• 2022–23: Jaden Schwartz
• 2023–24: Jaden Schwartz
• 2024–25: Jaden Schwartz

Fan Favorite Award

• 2021–22: Yanni Gourde
• 2022–23: Matty Beniers
• 2023–24: Joey Daccord
• 2024–25: Brandon Montour

{{col-end}}

{{main article|List of Seattle Kraken records}}

File:2023-10-17 pre-game Jared McCann-1 (cropped).jpeg leads Seattle all-time in goals and points.]]

These are the top-ten point-scorers in franchise history.{{cite web|title=Regular Season – All Skaters – Career for Franchise – Career Points – NHL.com – Stats|url=https://www.nhl.com/stats/skaters?reportType=allTime&seasonFrom=19171918&seasonTo=20242025&gameType=2&playerPlayedFor=franchise.39&sort=points,goals,assists&page=0&pageSize=5|publisher=National Hockey League|access-date=April 28, 2025}} Figures are updated after each completed NHL regular season.

• {{color box|#CCFFCC|*|border=darkgray}} – current Kraken player

Note: Pos = Position; GP = Games Played; G = Goals; A = Assists; Pts = Points; P/G = Points per game

{{col-begin|width=auto}}

{{col-break}}

{{col-break}}

{{col-break}}

{{col-end}}

{{notelist}}

{{reflist}}

{{Commons category}}

• {{Official website|https://www.nhl.com/kraken}}

{{Seattle Kraken}}

{{Navboxes|titlestyle=background:#FFFFFF; border-top:#001425 5px solid; border-bottom:#96D8D8 5px solid;|list=

{{NHL}}

{{Washington Sports}}

{{Seattle Sports}}

}}

{{Authority control}}

{{Portal bar|Ice hockey|United States}}

Category:National Hockey League teams

Category:2018 establishments in Washington (state)

Category:Ice hockey clubs established in 2018

Category:Ice hockey teams in Washington (state)

Category:Kraken in popular culture

Category:Pacific Division (NHL)