The Seattle Kraken are gearing up for their fourth NHL season. With one playoff appearance in 2022-23, and two other seasons that did not go as planned, what should their expectations be next season?
Realistic Expectation
Realistically, making it back to the playoffs is the ultimate goal. The only way that the 2024-25 season can be considered any kind of a success, is if they are playing hockey past April 15th, 2025.
With some new tools at their disposal, it is completely possible that they can climb the ranks of the Pacific Division and take a playoff spot. It is a tough division, with the Los Angeles Kings, Vegas Golden Knights, Vancouver Canucks, and of course the Stanley Cup runner-up, Edmonton Oilers. Each of those four teams can win the division, and each will likely be representing the Pacific Division in the Western Conference playoff bracket.
Additionally, if they can get themselves back into the playoff conversation, then come the expectations of winning a playoff series or two. They did it in 2022-23, so they have what it takes to get it done. They seem to be tougher and grittier than a year ago, and that will help in the playoffs.
These are all some very real expectations for the Kraken in 2024-25, but let's get a little crazier than that.
Dream Expectations
The Kraken's dream expectation for the 2024-25 season is to be the best team in the NHL, win the Presidents' Trophy, and then lift Lord Stanley next June. Of course, these are all dreams and have a very low chance of happening. But, hey, you never know.
For this to become a reality, it is going to take a complete team effort. The forwards have to be scoring at will, the defense has to be incredible in all 200 feet of the ice, and the goaltending will have to be a literal brick wall. Improbable, yes, impossible, no.
What are your expectations for the Seattle Kraken in 2024-25?