Seattle Kraken: Celebrating 25 Years of NHL Excellence
The National Hockey League (NHL) is commemorating its 25th anniversary in 2025 by honoring the best players from the past quarter-century. Each of the league’s 32 teams, including the expansion Seattle Kraken, will have a first and second team selected, showcasing the top talent that has graced the ice since 2000. [[1]]
A panel of esteemed hockey journalists,broadcasters,and NHL.com writers,who have witnessed these teams evolve over the past 25 years,have carefully chosen the players for these prestigious squads. The six players selected for each team’s first line will be eligible for the NHL All Quarter-Century Team, persistent by a fan vote commencing in February.
Today, we delve into the Seattle Kraken’s Quarter-Century Team, highlighting the exceptional players who have made their mark on the franchise.
Seattle Kraken’s elite: The First Team
Forwards:
Jordan Eberle: A seasoned veteran, Eberle was drafted 22nd overall in 2008 and spent seven seasons with the Edmonton Oilers and four with the New York Islanders before being selected by the Kraken in the 2021 expansion draft. Named Kraken captain for the 2024-25 season, Eberle has amassed an notable 162 points (64 goals, 98 assists) in 256 games for the franchise.
Yanni Gourde: Acquired from the Tampa Bay Lightning in the expansion draft, Gourde has been a consistent offensive force for the Kraken, recording 145 points (52 goals, 93 assists) in 270 games.
Jared McCann: Originally drafted by the Pittsburgh Penguins, McCann has emerged as the Kraken’s leading scorer with 210 points (109 goals, 101 assists) in 273 games. his 26 power-play goals and six shorthanded goals are franchise records.
Defensemen:
Vince Dunn:
Adam Larsson:
Goaltender:
Joey Daccord:
Diving Deep with Yanni Gourde: A Look at the Seattle Kraken’s 25th Anniversary Team
Welcome back, hockey fans! This week, we’re diving headfirst into the exciting world of the Seattle Kraken’s 25th Anniversary Team. To help us dissect this remarkable roster, I’m joined by none other than Yanni Gourde himself – a cornerstone of the Kraken’s offensive firepower since their inaugural season. Welcome to the show, Yanni!
Yanni: Thanks for having me! It’s always a pleasure to talk hockey.
Moderator: Let’s get right into it. You’ve been selected for the kraken’s first-line forward position. How does it feel to be recognized amongst the franchise’s elite in such a short period?
Yanni: It’s an unbelievable honor. When you join a brand-new team, you don’t necessarily think about individual accolades. You’re focused on building something special from the ground up. To be chosen for this anniversary team, alongside such talented guys like Jordan Eberle and Jared McCann, is truly humbling.
Moderator: You’ve certainly been a force to be reckoned with as arriving from the Tampa Bay Lightning. Many see you as the heart and soul of this team. What do you attribute your success to?
Yanni: I think it’s a combination of things. coming from a winning culture in Tampa, I learned a lot about what it takes to succeed at the highest level. I’ve also been incredibly lucky to play with such skilled linemates and teammates who push me to be better every day. And of course, the incredible fans in Seattle have made this place feel like home from the start.
Moderator: Speaking of teammates, you’ve seen firsthand the growth and development of young players like Matty Beniers and Shane wright. What’s your assessment of the future of this Kraken franchise?
Yanni: Shining, very bright! Those two are exceptional talents with a ton of potential. They’re sponges, always eager to learn and improve. Combined with the veteran leadership we have in the locker room, I believe this team is capable of achieving some truly special things in the years to come.
Moderator: Now, let’s turn to the fan vote for the NHL All Quarter-Century Team. You’ll be competing against some of the best forwards in league history. What are your thoughts on that?
Yanni: It’s going to be an incredibly tough competition.Just looking at the names on the ballot is inspiring. To even be considered alongside those guys is an honor.Ultimately, the fans will decide, and I’m grateful for their support.
Moderator: Before we wrap up, I want to give our readers a chance to weigh in. What do our Kraken faithful think about the 25th Anniversary Team selections? Do you agree with Yanni’s inclusion? Who would be on your first line? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
thanks for joining us, Yanni. Best of luck in the fan vote!
Yanni: Thanks for having me! I really appreciate the opportunity to connect with the fans. Go Kraken!
