2023 Playoff Run
The Seattle Kraken are the NHL's 32nd franchise, debuting in 2021–22 and making a historic playoff run in their second season.
The Seattle Kraken are a professional ice hockey team based in Seattle. The Kraken compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as a member of the Pacific Division in the Western Conference. The team was founded after the NHL approved a proposal by Seattle Hockey Partners to grant an expansion franchise to the city of Seattle and began play during the league's 2021–22 season. They play their home games at Climate Pledge Arena.
Quick Facts
- Season
- 2022–23
- Round
- First Round
- Opponent
- Colorado Avalanche
- Result
- Won Series (4-3)
Lore & Background
The Kraken struggled during their inaugural season and finished last in the Pacific Division with 60 points. During the 2022–23 season, the team achieved a record of 46–28–8 and 100 points, securing fourth place in the Pacific Division and the first playoff wild card spot in the Western Conference. During the playoffs, the Kraken faced off against the Colorado Avalanche in the first round. They upset the Avalanche in seven games, becoming the first expansion team to win their first playoff series over the defending Stanley Cup champion. However, they lost to the Dallas Stars in the second round, ending their second season.
Reader's Guide
The Kraken improved significantly in their second season. During the offseason, the team signed goaltender Martin Jones to a one-year contract. In January 2023, Jones appeared for the Kraken in seven games of an eight-game win streak. While doing so, the franchise became the first team to win all seven games of a seven-game road trip. Eventually, the Kraken clinched their first playoff berth, qualifying for the 2023 Stanley Cup playoffs. The team's record of 46–28–8 and 100 points placed the team fourth in the Pacific Division, thus achieving the first wild card playoff spot in the Western Conference. On April 30, the Kraken defeated the Colorado Avalanche in the opening best-of-seven playoff series, becoming the first expansion team in NHL history to win their first playoff series against the defending Stanley Cup champion. The team's playoff run came to an end after the second round where they lost to the Dallas Stars in seven games. On June 26, at the NHL awards ceremony, Matty Beniers was named the winner of the Calder Memorial Trophy for being the NHL rookie of the year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which NHL season included this playoff appearance?
The run took place during the 2022–23 campaign, marking the franchise's second straight trip to the postseason.
Who was Seattle's opponent in the First Round?
The Kraken faced the Winnipeg Jets in a matchup that determined whether they could advance further.
Where did the team play their home games?
Matches were hosted at Climate Pledge Arena, where supporters created an energetic environment for the players.
How did the playoff series conclude?
Seattle was eliminated in the First Round and failed to secure a spot in the second round of competition.
What significance does this era hold for the club?
It demonstrated the team's growth after their debut year by establishing themselves as a consistent contender in the Pacific Division.
More in Club History & Eras
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