The Seattle Kraken are the NHL’s newest franchise, electrifying the Pacific Northwest with their passionate fanbase and captivating on-ice energy. While their history is still being forged, they boast a unique story full of surprises. Let’s dive in and discover the fascinating aspects of Seattle’s hockey heroes.
15 Interesting Facts about the Seattle Kraken
- Expansion Excitement:
- The Kraken joined the NHL in 2021, fulfilling a decades-long dream of bringing top-flight hockey back to Seattle.
- The Kraken Unleashed:
- The Kraken was chosen as the team name after a fan vote, inspired by the mythical sea creature with a strong connection to the Pacific Northwest.
- Climate Pledge Arena:
- The Kraken play their home games in the stunning and sustainable Climate Pledge Arena, a state-of-the-art facility in the heart of Seattle.
- Dave Hakstol’s Helm:
- Dave Hakstol is the Kraken’s first head coach, tasked with building a team from the ground up.
- The Expansion Draft:
- The Kraken assembled their inaugural roster through the 2021 Expansion Draft, selecting one player from each existing NHL team (except for the Vegas Golden Knights).
- “Release the Kraken!” Catchphrase:
- The call of “Release the Kraken!” has become a rallying cry for the team and its fans.
- The Deep Sea Blue:
- The Kraken sport a striking teal, navy, and white color scheme, reflecting the colors of the Puget Sound and its marine life.
- Building the Brand:
- The Kraken quickly established a strong visual identity with their iconic tentacle-themed primary logo and unique secondary logos.
- 32,000 Strong:
- The Kraken broke the league record for season ticket deposits in their inaugural year, demonstrating the incredible hockey demand in Seattle
- Gourdon’s First Goal:
- Yanni Gourdon scored the first goal in Kraken franchise history, a special moment etched in the team’s story.
- Gru the Goalie:
- Philipp Grubauer became the Kraken’s first starting goalie, anchoring the defense from the outset.
- Matty Beniers Breaks the Ice:
- Young center Matty Beniers, a local product of the University of Michigan, was the Kraken’s first-ever draft pick and is quickly becoming a fan favorite.
- Community Focused:
- The Seattle Kraken organization is committed to the community, partnering with local charities and growing youth hockey programs in the region.
- “The Depths:” Fanbase Unites:
- Kraken fans have enthusiastically adopted the nickname “The Depths,” signifying the deep connection and passion for their team.
- The Future is Bright:
- While their first seasons have been challenging, the Kraken are building a competitive roster and laying a strong foundation for years to come.