Yes, Seattle did get a hockey team. The team is officially called the Seattle Kraken and they are set to begin playing in the National Hockey League (NHL) in the 2021-2022 season. This is an exciting development for hockey fans in Seattle and marks the city’s return to having a major professional sports team in the NHL. The team’s name, “Kraken,” was chosen to reflect the unique maritime history and culture of Seattle.
FAQs:
1. When was it announced that Seattle would be getting a hockey team?
– The announcement was made on December 4, 2018, confirming that Seattle would indeed be granted an NHL expansion team.
2. What is the significance of the team’s name “Kraken”?
– The name was chosen to pay tribute to Seattle’s maritime history and strong connection to the sea. The Kraken is a legendary sea monster often depicted in Scandinavian folklore and maritime tales.
3. Where will the Seattle Kraken play their home games?
– The team will be based at the Climate Pledge Arena, formerly known as the KeyArena. The arena is currently undergoing extensive renovations to accommodate the team and provide a state-of-the-art facility for both players and fans.
4. Who is the owner of the Seattle Kraken?
– The team is owned by the Oak View Group, led by majority owner David Bonderman. The ownership group also includes Hollywood producer Jerry Bruckheimer, who played a key role in bringing the NHL team to Seattle.
5. Will the Seattle Kraken have a rivalry with any other NHL teams?
– While it is still early to predict specific rivalries, the team’s proximity to Vancouver, Canada, suggests that a natural rivalry may develop with the Vancouver Canucks. Geographical proximity often leads to intense rivalries in professional sports.
6. Has Seattle had a professional hockey team in the past?
– Seattle had a professional hockey team in the past known as the Seattle Metropolitans. They played in the Pacific Coast Hockey Association (PCHA) from 1915 to 1924. The Metropolitans won the Stanley Cup in 1917, making them the first American team to win the prestigious trophy.
7. What impact is the arrival of the Seattle Kraken expected to have on the city?
– The arrival of the Seattle Kraken is expected to create a significant boost to the local economy, generate job opportunities, and increase tourism. It also brings a new sense of excitement and pride to the city, as fans eagerly await the team’s inaugural season.
BOTTOM LINE:
Seattle has been awarded an NHL expansion team, the Seattle Kraken, who will start playing in the 2021-2022 season. The team’s name pays homage to the city’s maritime history, and they will be based at the Climate Pledge Arena. The arrival of the Kraken is expected to have a positive economic impact on the city while adding to its sporting legacy.
