
(RDS.CA)
The Seattle Kraken have named veteran forward Jordan Eberle as the second captain in their young history. Eberle succeeds Mark Giordano, who was the Kraken’s inaugural captain before being traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs during the team’s first season. For Eberle, this appointment is a significant moment in a career filled with leadership roles, offensive prowess, and respect from teammates. For the Kraken, it marks another step in the team’s evolution as they solidify their identity in the NHL.
A Natural Leader
Since the Kraken’s inception, Eberle has been a key figure both on and off the ice. His experience, professionalism, and consistent performance have made him an indispensable member of the team. During Seattle’s expansion draft, when Eberle was selected from the New York Islanders, it was clear that the Kraken were looking for players who not only had the skill to compete at the NHL level but also the character to shape the locker room culture. Eberle’s leadership qualities quickly became apparent, making him a natural choice to don the “C.”
Eberle has demonstrated his leadership capabilities throughout his career, from his early days with the Edmonton Oilers to his successful tenure with the Islanders. Known for his calm demeanor, work ethic, and ability to lead by example, he has often been the steadying force that teams rely on. In Seattle, where the franchise is still establishing its identity, these qualities are invaluable.
Leadership by Example
On the ice, Eberle is a versatile forward who can both score and create plays. Entering his fourth seasons with the Kraken, Eberle has been one of the team’s most consistent offensive threats, contributing timely goals and using his hockey IQ to generate scoring chances. While not known for being the loudest voice in the locker room, Eberle leads by example with his effort, discipline, and attention to detail.
During the Kraken’s unexpected run to the playoffs in their second season, Eberle was instrumental in guiding a young team through the rigors of postseason hockey. His veteran presence helped stabilize the team in high-pressure situations, and his ability to deliver in crucial moments, such as his overtime goal in Game 4 against the Colorado Avalanche in the first round, highlighted his value to the team.
Eberle’s appointment as captain sends a strong message to his teammates and the organization: this is a player who understands what it takes to win and is committed to the team’s long-term success. As captain, he will now have an even greater role in shaping the Kraken’s culture and direction as they continue to develop into a competitive force in the NHL.
Building the Kraken’s Legacy
Being named captain is a personal milestone for Eberle, and it’s also a reflection of the Kraken’s journey as a franchise. As the second captain in Seattle Kraken history, Eberle will help define what it means to wear the “C” for this new franchise. His leadership will shape the expectations for future captains and establish a standard for how the Kraken want to be perceived around the league.
Unlike some expansion teams that take years to find stability, the Kraken have quickly built a competitive roster and strong fan base. Seattle’s impressive playoff run in their sophomore season demonstrated the team’s potential, and Eberle’s leadership will be key to continuing that upward trajectory. While the Kraken are still writing the early chapters of their story, Eberle’s captaincy represents a commitment to growth, teamwork, and resilience.
Veteran Experience in a Young Core
Eberle’s role as captain is particularly important given the Kraken’s mix of veteran talent and young, developing players. With up-and-coming stars like Matty Beniers and Shane Wright in the fold, the Kraken have a youthful core that will benefit from Eberle’s experience and guidance. Eberle has been through the highs and lows of an NHL career, from the rebuilding years in Edmonton to the playoff battles in New York, and now to the excitement of being a leader on a rising team in Seattle.
For younger players, Eberle’s steady presence and professionalism will serve as a model of how to handle the challenges of an 82-game season, the ups and downs of team performance, and the pressures of playoff contention. Eberle knows what it takes to navigate those challenges, and his experience will help the Kraken’s younger players grow into leadership roles of their own.
A Key Figure in Seattle’s Future
As the Kraken continue to build their identity, Eberle’s role as captain will be a cornerstone of the team’s development. He will be expected to guide them through not only the immediate challenges of competing in the NHL but also the long-term task of establishing a winning culture. While Eberle may not be a household name like some of the league’s other captains, his appointment reflects the Kraken’s philosophy of building a team that values hard work, character, and resilience.
Eberle’s captaincy also represents a vote of confidence from the organization in his leadership abilities and his importance to the team’s future. As the Kraken continue to evolve, Eberle will be a key figure in shaping the team’s identity both on and off the ice.
Final Thoughts
Jordan Eberle being named the second captain in Seattle Kraken franchise history is a testament to his leadership, experience, and importance to the team. As the Kraken aim to build on their early success and solidify their place as a competitive NHL franchise, Eberle’s steady hand and veteran presence will guide them through the challenges ahead. In naming him captain, the Kraken have chosen a leader who embodies the values of hard work, consistency, and dedication—qualities that will serve the franchise well as it continues to grow.