Seattle Kraken CEO Sees Need for Change Amid Team Struggles

Kraken's top executive acknowledges challenges as franchise seeks to build momentum.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 4:56am

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A cubist-style painting featuring fragmented, geometric shapes in muted tones, representing the complex challenges facing the Seattle Kraken as they strive to establish themselves as a successful NHL franchise.The Kraken's struggles to connect with Seattle fans and find success on the ice have led to a need for organizational changes, as the team works to build momentum in the competitive NHL landscape.Seattle Today

In his second season as CEO of the Seattle Kraken, Tod Leiweke has seen the significant impact a successful team can have on a city. However, the Kraken have struggled on the ice, leading Leiweke to acknowledge the need for changes within the organization as they work to build momentum and connect with the community.

Why it matters

The Kraken are a relatively new NHL franchise, having joined the league in 2021. As a major professional sports team, the Kraken's performance and connection to the Seattle community are important factors in the team's long-term viability and the city's sports landscape.

The details

Leiweke, who previously served as CEO of the Tampa Bay Lightning and the NFL's Seattle Seahawks, has emphasized the importance of the Kraken establishing a strong bond with Seattle fans. However, the team's struggles on the ice during its first two seasons have made that task more challenging.

  • The Kraken joined the NHL as an expansion team in 2021.
  • Leiweke is in his second season as the Kraken's CEO.

The players

Tod Leiweke

The CEO of the Seattle Kraken, who previously held executive roles with the Tampa Bay Lightning and Seattle Seahawks.

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What they’re saying

“By his second season as CEO of the Kraken, Tod Leiweke had witnessed firsthand just how impactful a successful team can be for the city of Seattle.”

— Tod Leiweke, CEO, Seattle Kraken

What’s next

Leiweke and the Kraken organization will continue to evaluate the team's performance and make necessary changes to improve the on-ice product and strengthen the team's connection with the Seattle community.

The takeaway

The Kraken's struggles in their first two seasons highlight the challenges of building a successful professional sports franchise, even in a hockey-hungry market like Seattle. Leiweke's acknowledgment of the need for change suggests the team is committed to finding solutions to better engage with fans and improve the team's competitiveness.