The Seattle Kraken made a splash in their second season, qualifying for the Stanley Cup Playoffs and making an impressive run that saw them eliminate the defending 2022 Stanley Cup champion Colorado Avalanche in the Western Conference First Round. Although their playoff journey ended with a seven-game series loss to the Dallas Stars in the second round, the Kraken’s performance captured the hearts of Seattle sports fans and left a lasting impression on the NHL.
The team’s success on the ice was matched by an innovative approach to broadcasting and game presentation. This was evident in remarks made by NHL Chief Content Officer, Steve Mayer, who highlighted the incorporation of Seattle landmarks such as the Space Needle, Pike Place Market, and The Seattle Great Wheel into the television broadcast. Mayer emphasized the importance of showcasing the unique identity of the city and the Kraken as a new franchise that has quickly established a passionate fan base.
One of the most exciting developments for the Kraken and their fans is the transformation of T-Mobile Park, home of the Seattle Mariners, into a hockey venue for the upcoming season. Renderings unveiled by the NHL showcased the creative possibilities for using the baseball stadium to create a unique and immersive experience for hockey fans. Mayer mentioned plans to incorporate set pieces, such as a shipwrecked boat in center field, symbolizing the tentacles of the Kraken and highlighting the connection to the team’s name and the Pacific Northwest environment.
The upcoming season promises to be an exciting time for the Kraken and their supporters, with the team’s playoff run and the innovative game presentation setting the stage for continued success and a strong sense of identity both on and off the ice.