seattle trident

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What is Seattle Trident?

Seattle Trident is a proposed National Hockey League (NHL) expansion team that was planned to begin play in Seattle, Washington. The team’s name was never officially announced, and the expansion bid ultimately led to the creation of the Seattle Kraken.

While the name “Trident” generated significant buzz and speculation, it remained unofficial throughout the process. The NHL ultimately awarded Seattle an expansion franchise, but the team was christened the Kraken, drawing inspiration from local maritime lore.

The Unofficial Name and Early Buzz

Before the official announcement of the Seattle Kraken, “Seattle Trident” emerged as a popular and widely discussed potential name. The name resonated with many fans due to its connection to the region’s maritime history and the symbolism of the trident, often associated with the sea god Neptune. The trident also represented the three branches of Washington state military bases, which was one of the options for the team name. The moniker gained traction online, in fan forums, and even in unofficial merchandise, fueling speculation and excitement.

The Expansion Bid and NHL Approval

The push for an NHL team in Seattle gained momentum in the late 2010s, spearheaded by the Oak View Group. Their proposal involved a complete renovation of KeyArena (now Climate Pledge Arena), transforming it into a state-of-the-art facility capable of hosting NHL games. The NHL officially approved Seattle’s expansion application in December 2018, setting the stage for the arrival of a new franchise. You can read more about the NHL expansion process on Wikipedia about National Hockey League expansion.

From Trident to Kraken: The Official Announcement

Despite the popularity of the “Trident” name, the NHL ultimately decided on a different identity for the Seattle franchise. On July 23, 2020, the team officially unveiled its name as the Seattle Kraken, along with its logo and color scheme. The Kraken name was chosen to reflect the city’s connection to the sea and the mythical sea monster said to inhabit the depths of the Puget Sound.

Why Kraken Over Trident?

While the exact reasons for choosing “Kraken” over “Trident” remain speculative, several factors likely played a role. The Kraken name offered a unique and distinctive identity, setting the team apart from other NHL franchises. The mythical creature resonated with the local culture and provided a strong visual identity for branding and marketing. The Kraken also allowed for a more creative and engaging narrative surrounding the team, appealing to fans of all ages.

FAQs about Seattle Trident

Why wasn’t the Seattle NHL team named the Trident?

While popular, the Kraken name offered a more unique and distinctive identity, resonating with local culture and providing a strong visual for branding.

What does the Kraken name mean for the Seattle hockey team?

It reflects Seattle’s connection to the sea and the mythical sea monster, creating a unique identity and narrative.

What other names were considered for the Seattle NHL team?

Other rumored names included Sockeyes, Totems, and Rainiers.

When did the Seattle Kraken start playing in the NHL?

The Seattle Kraken began playing in the NHL during the 2021-2022 season.

Who owns the Seattle Kraken?

The Seattle Kraken are owned by Seattle Hockey Partners, a group led by David Bonderman.

Summary

Although the name “Seattle Trident” was never officially adopted, it played a significant role in the lead-up to the arrival of NHL hockey in Seattle. The name captured the imagination of fans and generated excitement for the new franchise. Ultimately, the NHL chose the name “Seattle Kraken,” establishing a distinctive identity for the team and solidifying its connection to the city’s maritime heritage.

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