35 Facts About The Seattle Kraken

The Birth of the Seattle Kraken

The Seattle Kraken is the newest team in the NHL, bringing excitement and fresh energy to the league. Here are some fascinating facts about this team that you might not know.

1. The Seattle Kraken was officially announced as the NHL's 32nd team on December 4, 2018.
2. Seattle's NHL team name, "Kraken," was revealed on July 23, 2020, after extensive fan input and speculation.
3. The Kraken's name is inspired by a legendary sea monster from Scandinavian folklore.
4. Seattle's NHL team is the first to use the name "Kraken" in professional sports.

Team Colors and Logo

The Kraken's branding is unique and eye-catching, reflecting the maritime culture of Seattle.

5. The team's primary colors are deep sea blue, ice blue, boundless blue, shadow blue, and red alert.
6. The Kraken's logo features an "S" shaped like a tentacle, paying homage to the Seattle Metropolitans, the first American team to win the Stanley Cup.
7. The secondary logo includes an anchor with the Seattle Space Needle cleverly integrated into its design.

Home Arena: Climate Pledge Arena

The Kraken's home games are played in a state-of-the-art facility with a focus on sustainability.

8. Climate Pledge Arena, located at Seattle Center, is the first net-zero carbon certified arena in the world.
9. The arena's name comes from a partnership with Amazon to promote climate action.
10. The venue uses rainwater collected from the roof to create the ice for the rink.

The Inaugural Season

The Kraken's first season in the NHL was filled with memorable moments and milestones.

11. The Kraken played their first regular-season game on October 12, 2021, against the Vegas Golden Knights.
12. Their first home game took place on October 23, 2021, against the Vancouver Canucks.
13. The Kraken's first win came on October 14, 2021, against the Nashville Predators.

Players and Coaches

The team has assembled a diverse and talented roster, along with experienced coaching staff.

14. Dave Hakstol was named the first head coach of the Seattle Kraken on June 24, 2021.
15. Mark Giordano, a veteran defenseman, was the Kraken's first team captain.
16. Philipp Grubauer, a standout goaltender, was one of the team's key signings in free agency.

Community and Fan Engagement

The Kraken have quickly become a beloved part of the Seattle community, engaging fans in various ways.

17. The team launched the "One Roof Foundation" to support youth access to hockey and environmental sustainability.
18. Kraken fans are known as the "Kraken faithful" and have embraced the team's unique identity.
19. The team has a mascot named "Buoy," a playful sea creature that entertains fans during games.

Unique Traditions

The Kraken have already started to build their own traditions, adding to the rich tapestry of NHL culture.

20. The "Release the Kraken" chant is a fan favorite, echoing through the arena before games.
21. The team has a tradition of raising a "12th Man" flag, similar to the Seattle Seahawks, to honor their fans.
22. The Kraken's goal horn is a foghorn, fitting for a team with a maritime theme.

Expansion Draft

The Kraken's roster was built through an expansion draft, selecting players from other NHL teams.

23. The expansion draft took place on July 21, 2021.
24. Each NHL team could protect a certain number of players, leaving others available for selection by the Kraken.
25. The Kraken selected 30 players, one from each NHL team except the Vegas Golden Knights.

Notable Games and Moments

Despite being a new team, the Kraken have already had some standout moments.

26. The Kraken's first-ever shutout was recorded by Philipp Grubauer on November 4, 2021, against the Buffalo Sabres.
27. The team set a record for the fastest three goals in franchise history on November 24, 2021, against the Carolina Hurricanes.
28. The Kraken's first overtime win came on November 11, 2021, against the Anaheim Ducks.

Merchandise and Memorabilia

Kraken gear has become highly sought after, with fans eager to show their support.

29. The team's jerseys feature a unique design with the Kraken logo prominently displayed.
30. Kraken merchandise includes a wide range of items, from hats and scarves to home decor.
31. The team has partnered with local artists to create limited-edition memorabilia.

Future Prospects

The Kraken are building for the future, with a focus on developing young talent and creating a winning culture.

32. The team has invested in a state-of-the-art training facility called the Kraken Community Iceplex.
33. The Kraken have a strong scouting department, focused on identifying and developing young players.
34. The team is committed to building a competitive roster through the NHL Draft and free agency.
35. The Kraken's long-term goal is to bring the Stanley Cup to Seattle, adding to the city's rich sports history.

Final Whistle on the Kraken

The Seattle Kraken have quickly made waves in the NHL with their unique name, striking logo, and passionate fan base. From their inaugural season to their commitment to sustainability, the Kraken have set themselves apart. Their home, Climate Pledge Arena, stands as a testament to their dedication to the environment. The team's name, inspired by the mythical sea creature, reflects the city's maritime heritage. With a roster of talented players and a community-focused approach, the Kraken are more than just a hockey team; they're a symbol of Seattle's spirit. Whether you're a die-hard hockey fan or just curious about this new team, the Kraken offer something for everyone. As they continue to grow and evolve, one thing's for sure: the Seattle Kraken are here to stay, making their mark on the NHL and beyond.