Seattle Kraken Name Jordan Eberle as New Team Captain
In a momentous announcement, the Seattle Kraken have named Jordan Eberle the second captain in the franchise's history. This decision comes as the team gears up for the new NHL season, with Eberle stepping into the leadership role previously held by Mark Giordano, who was traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs in March 2022. The announcement was made just before the Kraken’s season opener against the St. Louis Blues, creating an electrifying atmosphere at Climate Pledge Arena.
Eberle, now entering his 15th NHL season at the age of 34, embodies the spirit and determination that the Kraken seek in a leader. Just a day before the official announcement, he demonstrated his commitment to the team and its supporters by co-hosting an exclusive online Q&A session with general manager Ron Francis for season ticket holders. Eberle expressed his appreciation for the passionate fanbase, stating, “It’s always nice to interact with them. They’re the people that are cheering and the ones that kind of will us to win hockey games.”
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His on-ice contributions have been just as significant. Eberle holds a special place in Kraken history, having scored some of the franchise's most memorable goals, including the first hat trick and a crucial overtime winner in the 2023 playoffs that propelled the team forward. With 58 goals and 151 points to his name, he ranks second in all-time scoring for the team, underscoring his importance as a player. But beyond his statistics, it is his leadership qualities, both on and off the ice, that truly set him apart.
During the pregame ceremony, the anticipation in the arena reached a crescendo as fans eagerly awaited Eberle’s introduction. He was the last player to be announced, following the four alternate captains: Adam Larsson, Jaden Schwartz, Yanni Gourde, and rising star Matty Beniers. When Eberle finally emerged, the crowd erupted in applause, a testament to his connection with the fans and the respect he commands within the locker room.
Eberle's leadership journey has not been without its challenges. He faced tough moments last season, including a broken bone in his hand, which did not deter him from scoring a decisive overtime goal against the Detroit Red Wings just a week later. His resilience and ability to perform under pressure are qualities that head coach Dan Bylsma emphasized when discussing Eberle's new role. Bylsma stated, “Leadership to me is often a misunderstood word. It’s all about having the team mindset... that’s what a true leader is.”
As the Kraken embark on this new chapter, Eberle's experience and dedication will be invaluable in guiding the team through the trials of the upcoming season. His previous experiences as an alternate captain with the Oilers and his immediate leadership role within the Kraken have prepared him for this significant responsibility. The players and coaches are optimistic about Eberle’s captaincy, which not only signifies a shift in leadership but also represents a commitment to building a strong team culture.
The Kraken are poised for an exciting season ahead, and with Jordan Eberle at the helm, fans can expect a combination of passion, perseverance, and thrilling hockey. As he leads the team into battle, one thing is clear: the Kraken are ready to take on new challenges, and Eberle will be a key figure in driving their ambitions forward. Season ticket memberships are now available for fans eager to witness this pivotal season in person. Let’s go Kraken!
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