NHL · Pacific · Seattle, Washington, US · Climate Pledge Arena

Seattle Kraken

The NHL's newest franchise emerged from the deep waters of the Pacific Northwest with a mythology-drenched brand and a state-of-the-art arena - Seattle's first major winter sport, built for a city that has been waiting decades for hockey to call it home.

2018

2018–2022

Birth of the Kraken

Seattle's hockey dream becomes reality

Seattle's NHL franchise was awarded in December 2018 to an ownership group led by David Bonderman and Jerry Bruckheimer. The team name 'Kraken' was announced in July 2020, chosen to reflect the maritime culture of the Pacific Northwest. The franchise would play at the renovated Climate Pledge Arena, a stunning transformation of the historic KeyArena at Seattle Center that preserved the iconic roof while creating a state-of-the-art venue underneath.

The expansion draft in July 2021 allowed the Kraken to select players from every existing NHL team, building their initial roster. General manager Ron Francis, a Hall of Fame player, took a patient approach, focusing on draft picks and long-term assets rather than trying to win immediately. The inaugural 2021-22 season was a learning experience, with the team missing the playoffs but beginning to establish their identity in the community.

Key Facts

  • Franchise awarded in December 2018
  • Team named the Kraken in July 2020
  • Climate Pledge Arena opened as one of the NHL's best venues
  • Ron Francis served as the franchise's first general manager
2022

2022–Present

Building a Tradition

Playoff success and a growing hockey culture

The Kraken made a significant leap in their second season (2022-23), qualifying for the playoffs and defeating the Colorado Avalanche in the first round before falling to the Dallas Stars. The playoff run energized the fanbase and demonstrated that the franchise was ahead of schedule in its development. Matty Beniers won the Calder Trophy as Rookie of the Year in 2023, giving the team its first individual award winner.

The franchise has continued to develop its identity, blending veterans with young talent while Climate Pledge Arena has become one of the premier venues in professional sports. The Kraken have tapped into Seattle's passionate sports culture, and the team has been embraced by a city that has proven itself as a strong hockey market. The franchise is still in its early years, but the foundation for long-term success is being laid with each season.

Key Facts

  • Reached the second round of the playoffs in year two
  • Matty Beniers won the Calder Trophy in 2023
  • Climate Pledge Arena is one of the NHL's premier venues
  • Seattle has embraced hockey as a major sport