From the moment the Seattle Kraken burst onto the NHL scene, they promised to forge a new hockey legacy in the Pacific Northwest. While their inaugural season had its share of growing pains, the second year unleashed a torrent of unforgettable moments, instantly etching this expansion franchise into the hearts of Seattle sports fans. We’ve witnessed dramatic upsets, individual brilliance, and a collective spirit that defies expectations. As the Kraken continue to build their identity, let's count down the 10 most electrifying, impactful, and downright greatest moments so far, celebrating the journey from expansion dream to legitimate contender.
10. Ryan Donato Scores the First Goal in Franchise History
On October 12, 2021, against the Vegas Golden Knights, Ryan Donato etched his name into the Seattle Kraken history books forever. With the Kraken trailing 3-0 in their very first game, Donato capitalized on a loose puck in front of the net, snapping it past Robin Lehner. While the game ultimately ended in a loss, Donato's goal was a cathartic moment, signaling the birth of offense for the league's newest team. It was a tangible first step, a moment of pure excitement that resonated with every fan watching, confirming that the Kraken were officially on the board.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Date of Goal | Oct. 12, 2021 |
| Opponent | Vegas Golden Knights |
| Game Result | L 4-3 |
| Kraken Games Played | 1 |
9. Jared McCann Lights the Lamp for the First Time at Climate Pledge Arena
The Kraken's first-ever home game on October 23, 2021, was a spectacle, and the roar of the crowd needed a home goal to truly ignite. Jared McCann, a cornerstone of the early Kraken offense, provided that spark. Midway through the first period against the Vancouver Canucks, McCann buried a wrist shot, sending Climate Pledge Arena into an absolute frenzy. It wasn't just a goal; it was the symbolic baptism of their home ice, a moment that finally connected the team directly with its passionate Seattle fanbase in their own barn. McCann instantly became a fan favorite for this indelible mark.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Date of Goal | Oct. 23, 2021 |
| Opponent | Vancouver Canucks |
| Game Result | L 4-2 |
| 2021-22 Kraken Goals | 27 |
| 2022-23 Kraken Goals | 40 |
8. Yanni Gourde Records the First Kraken Hat Trick
Veteran forward Yanni Gourde, a two-time Stanley Cup champion, brought a winning pedigree and relentless energy to the Kraken. On March 5, 2022, he showcased his offensive prowess by scoring the franchise's first-ever hat trick against the Carolina Hurricanes. Gourde's gritty, determined style was perfectly encapsulated in that performance, as he found the net three times to thrill the home crowd. It was a highlight in a challenging first season, a clear indicator of the leadership and skill Gourde brought, and a taste of the offensive fireworks to come from the Kraken.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Date of Hat Trick | March 5, 2022 |
| Goals in Game | 3 |
| 2021-22 Points (Kraken) | 48 |
| 2022-23 Points (Kraken) | 48 |
| Career Hat Tricks | 3 |
7. Vince Dunn's Breakout 2022-23 Season
While not a single "moment," Vince Dunn's entire 2022-23 season was a revelation and easily one of the greatest stories in Kraken history. After showing flashes in the inaugural year, Dunn blossomed into an elite offensive defenseman, quarterbacking the power play and displaying an incredible two-way game. His confident puck-moving, booming shot, and defensive reliability transformed the Kraken's backend and played a critical role in their playoff push. Dunn's journey from a promising blueliner to a legitimate Norris Trophy candidate represents the rapid development and potential within the Kraken organization.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| 2022-23 Points | 64 |
| 2022-23 Goals | 14 |
| 2022-23 Assists | 50 |
| 2022-23 Plus/Minus | +28 |
| Career High Points | 64 (2022-23) |
6. Philipp Grubauer's Postseason Redemption Arc
Philipp Grubauer's first season in Seattle was a struggle, leading to many questioning his hefty contract. However, his performance in the 2022-23 season, particularly in the playoffs, was a masterclass in resilience and redemption. Grubauer stood on his head against the Colorado Avalanche and Dallas Stars, making crucial saves and giving the Kraken a chance to win every single night. His incredible turnaround, silencing critics and becoming the backbone of a playoff contender, was not just a testament to his talent but also a powerful narrative of belief and perseverance that epitomized the Kraken's own journey.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| 2022-23 Playoff GAA | 2.44 |
| 2022-23 Playoff SV% | .914 |
| 2022-23 Playoff Shutouts | 1 |
| 2022-23 Regular Season Wins | 17 |
| Kraken All-Time Playoff Wins | 7 |
5. Kraken Clinch First-Ever Playoff Berth
After a disappointing expansion season, the Kraken roared back in 2022-23, shocking the hockey world with their consistent play. On April 6, 2023, with a decisive 4-2 victory over the Arizona Coyotes, the Kraken officially punched their ticket to the Stanley Cup Playoffs. The moment the buzzer sounded, signifying their spot in the postseason, Climate Pledge Arena erupted. It was the culmination of a season's worth of hard work, proving that the Kraken were not just a novelty, but a legitimate competitive force. This achievement validated the team's "Even-Strength Kings" identity and solidified their place among the league's best.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Date of Clinch | April 6, 2023 |
| 2022-23 Regular Season Wins | 46 |
| 2022-23 Regular Season Points | 100 |
| Division Finish | 4th (Pacific) |
| Playoff Appearances | 1 |
4. Oliver Bjorkstrand's Game 6 Overtime Winner vs. Avalanche
Facing elimination and a hostile crowd in Colorado during their first-ever playoff series, the Kraken found themselves in overtime of Game 6. The tension was palpable, but Oliver Bjorkstrand, acquired just before the 2022-23 season, delivered the moment of brilliance. His blistering wrist shot beat Alexandar Georgiev, securing a thrilling 4-3 victory and forcing a decisive Game 7. This clutch goal not only saved the Kraken's season but showcased their mental fortitude and ability to perform under immense pressure, setting the stage for an unforgettable series conclusion. It was the ultimate "prove it" moment for the team and its newest star.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Date of Goal | April 28, 2023 |
| Game Result | W 4-3 (OT) |
| 2022-23 Playoff Goals | 4 |
| 2022-23 Regular Season Goals | 20 |
| Game-Winning Goals (2022-23) | 4 |
3. Matty Beniers Wins the Calder Memorial Trophy
As the Kraken's first-ever draft pick, Matty Beniers arrived in Seattle with immense expectations. He not only met them but exceeded them, capturing the Calder Memorial Trophy as the NHL's top rookie in 2023. Beniers was an immediate impact player, showcasing elite two-way talent, dazzling puck skills, and a remarkable hockey IQ. He became the undisputed face of the franchise, a dynamic young center around whom the Kraken could build their future. For Seattle fans, Beniers' Calder win was more than just an individual award; it was a promise fulfilled and a sign that the Kraken's future is incredibly bright, anchored by a true superstar.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| 2022-23 Rookie Points | 57 |
| 2022-23 Rookie Goals | 24 |
| 2022-23 Rookie Assists | 33 |
| 2022-23 Plus/Minus | +14 |
| Calder Trophy Wins | 1 |
2. Kraken Upset Defending Champion Avalanche in Game 7
It's not every day an expansion team, in its first playoff appearance, defeats the reigning Stanley Cup champions on their own ice in a Game 7. Yet, on April 30, 2023, that's exactly what the Seattle Kraken did. A gritty, determined performance saw them dismantle the mighty Colorado Avalanche with a commanding 2-1 victory. From the relentless forecheck to Grubauer's heroics, every player contributed to this monumental upset. It was a statement win that reverberated across the league, cementing the Kraken's arrival as a legitimate threat and transforming them from an underdog story into a playoff powerhouse overnight. The city of Seattle collectively held its breath and then erupted in pure joy.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Date of Game 7 Win | April 30, 2023 |
| Series Record vs. COL | 4-3 |
| Kraken Playoff Games Played | 14 |
| Kraken Playoff Series Won | 1 |
| Goals Scored in Game 7 | 2 |
1. The Entire 2022-23 Season: From Expansion to Contender
While specific moments stand out, the greatest "moment" in Kraken history so far is arguably the entire narrative arc of the 2022-23 season. From a 30th-place finish to a 100-point season and a playoff series victory against the defending champions, the Kraken’s second year was a masterclass in team building, resilience, and exceeding all expectations. They established a unique identity as the "Even-Strength Kings," showcased incredible depth, and captivated the city of Seattle. This season wasn't just about winning games; it was about forging a collective identity, earning respect, and showing the league that the Kraken were here to stay, cementing a bond with their passionate fanbase that will endure for years to come.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| 2022-23 Regular Season Wins | 46 |
| 2022-23 Regular Season Points | 100 |
| Goals For (2022-23) | 289 (4th NHL) |
| Road Wins (2022-23) | 26 (T-1st NHL) |
| Playoff Rounds Reached | 2 |
The Seattle Kraken have wasted no time in creating a rich tapestry of memories, quickly transitioning from the novelty of expansion to the thrill of legitimate contention. These moments, both individual and collective, have laid a foundational legacy for a franchise that feels deeply connected to its city. As the Kraken continue to grow and evolve, one thing is clear: the early years have been nothing short of spectacular, promising an even brighter future for hockey in the Emerald City.