The Seattle Kraken, once a blank canvas of anticipation and expansion draft promises, have rapidly carved out a vibrant, unforgettable history in their nascent years. From the electrifying pop of their inaugural goal to a stunning playoff upset that captivated the hockey world, this franchise has wasted no time embedding itself into the hearts of Seattle sports fans. Let's dive deep into the moments that defined their breathtaking ascent, celebrating the heroes and milestones that turned a brand new team into a legitimate contender.
Here are the 10 greatest Seattle Kraken moments so far, counting down to number one:
10. First Home Win: A Raucous Welcome (October 23, 2021)
After an initial road trip and a tough home opener loss, the Kraken finally delivered their first victory at Climate Pledge Arena, a dominant 5-1 performance against the Montreal Canadiens. The energy inside the building was palpable, a cathartic release for fans eager to celebrate their new team on home ice. Goals from Mark Giordano, Yanni Gourde, Brandon Tanev, and two from Alex Wennberg ignited the crowd, showcasing glimpses of the depth and excitement that would eventually define the franchise. This game was more than just two points; it was Seattle's true coming-out party, a statement that Climate Pledge would be a fortress.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Game Score | Kraken 5, Canadiens 1 |
| Kraken Shots on Goal | 28 |
| Power Play Efficiency | 50% (1/2) |
| Goaltender Saves (Grubauer) | 22 |
9. Vince Dunn's Breakout Season (2022-23)
While often overshadowed by offensive firepower, defenseman Vince Dunn quietly evolved into a legitimate top-pairing blueliner, culminating in a spectacular 2022-23 season that saw him flirt with Norris Trophy consideration. His offensive output exploded with 14 goals and 50 assists, showcasing his smooth skating, powerful shot, and exceptional puck-moving abilities. More than just statistics, Dunn became the engine for Seattle's transition game, quarterbacking the power play and stifling opponents with his improved defensive reliability. His meteoric rise cemented him as a cornerstone of the Kraken’s future and a fan favorite.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| 2022-23 Games Played | 81 |
| 2022-23 Goals | 14 |
| 2022-23 Assists | 50 |
| 2022-23 Points | 64 |
| 2022-23 Plus/Minus | +28 |
8. Jordan Eberle's Game 4 OT Winner vs. Colorado (April 24, 2023)
In a playoff series already packed with drama, veteran forward Jordan Eberle delivered one of the most clutch goals in Kraken history. With Game 4 against the defending champion Colorado Avalanche tied 2-2 in overtime, Eberle seized a loose puck in the slot and fired it past Alexandar Georgiev, sending Climate Pledge Arena into an absolute frenzy. The goal evened the series at two games apiece, stealing home-ice advantage back and igniting belief that an upset was truly possible. It was a moment of pure, unadulterated playoff magic, illustrating Eberle's enduring skill and leadership when it mattered most.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| 2023 Playoff Goals | 6 |
| 2023 Playoff Points | 11 |
| Career Overtime Goals | 8 |
| Game 4 Score | Kraken 3, Avalanche 2 (OT) |
| Series Record After G4 | 2-2 |
7. Ryan Donato Scores the First Kraken Goal (October 12, 2021)
Every franchise needs a "first," and for the Seattle Kraken, that historic honor belongs to Ryan Donato. In the second period of the team's inaugural game against the Vegas Golden Knights, Donato collected a pass from Alex Wennberg and wired a wrist shot past Robin Lehner, etching his name forever into Kraken lore. The goal, a power-play marker, sent a ripple of excitement through the T-Mobile Arena crowd and marked the beginning of countless goals to come. It was a tangible, thrilling milestone, signaling that the Kraken were officially on the board and ready to make their mark.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Date of Goal | October 12, 2021 |
| Opponent | Vegas Golden Knights |
| Final Score | 4-3 L (Kraken) |
| First Season Kraken Goals | 16 |
| Power Play Goal | Yes |
6. The Seattle Kraken Expansion Draft (July 21, 2021)
The moment Seattle truly became an NHL city arrived with the much-anticipated Expansion Draft, a primetime event that introduced the world to the Kraken's inaugural roster. Live from Gas Works Park, amidst a buzzing atmosphere of thousands of fans, General Manager Ron Francis systematically built his team, selecting 30 players from across the league. From the foundational picks like Mark Giordano and Yanni Gourde to the exciting potential of Jared McCann and Vince Dunn, the draft unveiled the diverse talent pool that would launch the franchise. It was the ceremonial birth of the team, igniting hope and cementing the Kraken's identity in the Emerald City.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Players Selected | 30 |
| Total Salary Cap Taken | ~$68 Million |
| Defensemen Selected | 12 |
| Forwards Selected | 15 |
| Goaltenders Selected | 3 |
5. Jared McCann's 40-Goal Season (2022-23)
Jared McCann’s electrifying 2022-23 campaign was a testament to his scoring prowess and solidified his status as the Kraken’s premier sniper. Becoming the first player in franchise history to reach the coveted 40-goal mark, McCann showcased a blistering shot and uncanny ability to find the back of the net in crucial moments. His offensive surge was a driving force behind Seattle’s surprising playoff berth, providing the consistent scoring punch the team desperately needed. This milestone season cemented McCann as an offensive leader and a vital part of the Kraken's attack, proving he's a true top-line threat.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| 2022-23 Games Played | 79 |
| 2022-23 Goals | 40 |
| 2022-23 Points | 70 |
| 2022-23 Power Play Goals | 13 |
| Career Kraken Goals | 85 |
4. First Playoff Game Win (Game 1 vs. Colorado Avalanche, April 18, 2023)
The Kraken's inaugural playoff game was nothing short of a statement. Traveling to Ball Arena to face the defending Stanley Cup champion Colorado Avalanche, Seattle delivered a stunning 3-1 upset in Game 1. Philipp Grubauer was magnificent in net, turning aside 36 shots, while goals from Tye Kartye, Brandon Yip, and Jaden Schwartz stunned the heavily favored Avs. This victory was monumental, proving that the Kraken were not just happy to be there, but were legitimate contenders capable of challenging the league's elite. It immediately set the tone for an unforgettable series, showing the world what Seattle was made of.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Game Score | Kraken 3, Avalanche 1 |
| Kraken Shots on Goal | 35 |
| Avalanche Shots on Goal | 37 |
| Grubauer Saves | 36 |
| Series Lead | 1-0 Kraken |
3. Matty Beniers Wins the Calder Trophy (June 26, 2023)
From the moment he stepped onto NHL ice, Matty Beniers was pegged as a future star, and in 2023, he delivered on that promise by becoming the first Seattle Kraken player to win a major individual award: the Calder Memorial Trophy as the league's top rookie. Beniers' electrifying blend of speed, skill, and hockey IQ immediately made him the face of the franchise, delighting Seattle fans with his tenacious two-way play and offensive flair. His 24 goals and 57 points led all rookies, solidifying his status as a foundational piece and a true cornerstone for the Kraken's bright future. Matty embodies everything Seattle wants in a hockey star – humble, hardworking, and exceptionally talented, making him an instant legend in the Emerald City.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| 2022-23 Games Played | 80 |
| 2022-23 Goals | 24 |
| 2022-23 Assists | 33 |
| 2022-23 Points | 57 |
| 2022-23 Plus/Minus | +17 |
2. Securing the First Playoff Berth (April 6, 2023)
The moment the Seattle Kraken officially punched their ticket to the Stanley Cup Playoffs, clinching a berth against the Arizona Coyotes, was a validation of everything the franchise had worked for. After a challenging inaugural season, the team’s dramatic turnaround in year two, fueled by relentless effort and incredible team chemistry, culminated in this historic achievement. It wasn't just about reaching the postseason; it was about proving the doubters wrong, rewarding the passionate fanbase, and establishing the Kraken as a legitimate force in the NHL. The roar of the crowd and the emotional celebration on the ice marked the end of their infancy and the beginning of a thrilling new chapter.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| 2022-23 Regular Season Record | 46-28-8 |
| 2022-23 Points | 100 |
| Western Conference Playoff Seed | 7th |
| Pacific Division Rank | 4th |
| Playoff Streak | 1st in Franchise History |
1. Upsetting the Colorado Avalanche in Game 7 (April 30, 2023)
In one of the most improbable and electrifying upsets in recent NHL history, the Seattle Kraken defeated the defending Stanley Cup champion Colorado Avalanche in a decisive Game 7, sending shockwaves through the hockey world. With a gritty 2-1 victory in Denver, the Kraken completed their fairy-tale run, becoming just the second expansion team in NHL history to win a playoff series in their second season. Oliver Bjorkstrand's two goals and Philipp Grubauer's heroic goaltending propelled Seattle to a monumental triumph, etching this moment as the defining achievement of the Kraken's young existence. It was a testament to their unwavering belief, unmatched work ethic, and solidified their place as a team that simply refuses to quit, providing Seattle fans with an unforgettable, iconic chapter.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Series Outcome | Kraken win 4-3 |
| Game 7 Score | Kraken 2, Avalanche 1 |
| Grubauer Saves (G7) | 33 |
| Series Underdog Probability | < 25% |
| Kraken Goals For (Series) | 22 |
From the first puck drop to the euphoria of a Game 7 upset, the Seattle Kraken have given their fans a whirlwind of unforgettable moments in their brief history. These milestones aren't just entries in a record book; they are the fabric of a rapidly growing legacy, embodying the spirit and potential of this exciting young franchise. As the Kraken continue to build and evolve, these foundational moments will forever serve as benchmarks for the exhilarating journey ahead, proving that Seattle is truly a hockey town.