Seattle continues to bask in the excitement of the Seattle Kraken as they kick off the 2024-2025 season. This year's campaign promises to be particularly special, with the franchise entering its fourth year and the local fanbase swelling with enthusiasm. New fans, curious about the game and the team, are now stepping onto the ice.
For those unfamiliar, the Kraken is the NHL’s 32nd franchise, introduced on December 4, 2018, and they began their first season just a few years back, during the 2021-22 season. The team has had its fair share of ups and downs, contending with challenges from the very start. The inaugural season didn't go as planned, with the team finishing at the bottom of the standings.
Fast forward to Season Two, and it was like night and day. General Manager Ron Francis made significant roster moves, like acquiring Oliver Bjorkstrand from the Columbus Blue Jackets. They signed free agent Andre Burakovsky, who became integral to the lineup. Matty Beniers, the franchise’s promising rookie, took center stage, snagging the Calder Trophy as the league's best rookie. His 57 points helped propel the Kraken to their first playoff berth, where they upset the defending champions, the Colorado Avalanche, showcasing the kind of competitive spirit Kraken fans are hungry for.
Yet, the team faced hurdles anew last season, falling short of the playoffs. Despite moments of brilliance, consistent performance eluded the Kraken, leading to another early exit juxtaposed against the success of their second season. It left many fans wondering: What’s next for the team they’ve rallied behind?
For loyal and newly acquired fans alike, grasping the key player dynamics will be helpful. Among the core athletes returning to the Kraken is Jordan Eberle, affectionately dubbed “Ebs.” The right winger’s leadership and experience have positioned him for likely captaincy this season, especially with the franchise having had no “C” on its jersey for two seasons now. Then there's Jared McCann, who not only leads the Kraken's points tally but also has set the franchise record with his impressive 40 goals last season.
Matty Beniers, still seen as the team’s future star, will continue to grow this season alongside last year’s second-round pick, Shane Wright. While last season was challenging for Beniers, his potential shines brightly. Wright, poised for his first full season, will add youthful energy and skill to the lineup.
On the defensive front, the Kraken's backbone is formed by players like Adam Larsson, Vince Dunn, and Jamie Oleksiak, all of whom bring reliability and tenacity. Larsson particularly stands out with his consistent performance from the blue line, providing calming defensive play. Dunn runs the power play with finesse, and the physicality of Oleksiak makes the defense hard to breach.
Between the pipes, Philipp Grubauer, aka “The German Gentleman,” will aim for strong performances again. The netminder's stellar play has been pivotal for the Kraken, especially during their playoff run against the Avalanche. Meanwhile, Joey Daccord has gained recognition, coming off last season with impressive save percentages. The fan-favorite goalie often spurs chants of “Joey, Joey, Joey!” from the stands whenever he makes significant stops.
The signature mascot of the Kraken, Buoy, also plays a role, charming fans with his antics. While he faced skepticism when first introduced, Buoy has since become embraced as part of the Kraken identity. His playful spirit surely helps to keep the energy alive at Climate Pledge Arena.
With the new season upon us, fans are buzzing with excitement. The Kraken’s recent acquisitions of veterans like Chandler Stephenson and Brandon Montour aim to add stability and experience to the roster. Notably, both players are under long-term contracts, which suggests a clear vision from management for building this team for the long haul.
One of the biggest changes heading to the ice this season is the new head coach Dan Bylsma, affectionately referred to as “Disco Dan.” Bylsma brings fresh ideas and strategies emphasizing offensive productivity without sacrificing the strong defensive foundation already established. His coaching crew, featuring Bob Woods, Jessica Campbell, and Dave Lowry, indicates the Kraken are serious about making some noise this season.
For those stepping onto the ice for the first time or wanting to brush up on hockey fundamentals, it’s certainly worth checking out resources like KING 5 Seattle’s “Hockey 101” video, which breaks down the game rules and flow. With offensive strategies, positional play, and more, newcomers can quickly grasp the nitty-gritty of ice hockey.
To catch all the action, KREM 2, KSKN, and Quest TV are joining forces to broadcast the Kraken’s games this season. KREM 2 will offer 80 games free over-the-air, ensuring fans can cheer from the comfort of their homes. For game-day excitement, the Kraken’s official network is also set to produce game broadcasts, adding pre-and post-game analysis to the mix. Fans can tune in using just about any TV device or streaming service available.
Certain game matchups are highly anticipated, especially the first game against the St. Louis Blues. Set for October 8, this opener promises to draw significant attention, with thousands expected to pack Climate Pledge Arena. Kraken supporters are ready to see how the new talents and strategies meld on the ice.
The Kraken’s three-season development has been fascinating, but what’s more exciting is the path forward. A mix of brilliant young players, seasoned veterans, and focused coaching could just be the ticket for serious playoff contention for the coming year. The anticipation is palpable: Can the Kraken return to the postseason glory they tasted just before?
Fans eager for the most thrilling matchups of the season won’t have to wait long. With broadcasts laid out for nearly every game, they can follow their team closely, hoping it becomes their year once more. Can this squad, embracing fresh energy and experience, surprise everyone and mount another thrilling playoff run? The city of Seattle waits with bated breath as the puck drops.
