Eddie Olczyk – Seattle Kraken Analyst Brings Hockey Expertise to Pacific Northwest
Eddie Olczyk has become a familiar voice for hockey fans across the Seattle region. The former NHL player and veteran broadcaster joined the Seattle Kraken commentary team, bringing his extensive hockey knowledge to the Pacific Northwest. Olczyk currently provides color commentary for Kraken games while also contributing to NHL on TNT broadcasts, offering viewers insightful analysis drawn from his playing and broadcasting career.
The journey to Seattle wasn’t without challenges for Olczyk. In 2017, he was diagnosed with stage 3 colon cancer, a battle he fought successfully and has now been cancer-free for over six years. His personal story of resilience adds another dimension to his role with the NHL’s newest franchise.
Fans appreciate Olczyk’s chemistry with play-by-play announcer John Forslund, creating one of the most respected broadcasting teams in hockey. His experience both on the ice and behind the microphone has made him an invaluable part of the Kraken’s identity as they continue building their presence in the NHL.
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Eddie Olczyk’s Role with the Seattle Kraken
Eddie Olczyk joined the Seattle Kraken’s broadcast team in 2022, bringing his extensive hockey knowledge and broadcasting experience to the NHL’s newest franchise. His journey to Seattle came after a significant career with the Chicago Blackhawks’ broadcast team.
Transition to the Kraken
Eddie Olczyk made a surprising move to the Seattle Kraken after many years as a fixture in the Chicago Blackhawks’ broadcast booth. Olczyk joined the ROOT Sports TV booth for Kraken games, partnering with veteran play-by-play announcer John Forslund.
The transition represented a major shift for Olczyk, who had become synonymous with Blackhawks hockey as their longtime color commentator. According to reports, Olczyk found comfort with the Kraken after leaving Chicago, where he had established himself as one of hockey’s most respected voices.
His move to Seattle allowed him a fresh start with an expansion franchise while maintaining his national broadcasting duties with TNT.
Responsibilities as Broadcaster
As the color analyst for Kraken broadcasts, Olczyk brings expert analysis and insight gained from his playing and coaching career. He works alongside John Forslund, forming what many consider one of the strongest broadcast duos in the NHL.
Olczyk’s responsibilities include:
- Providing in-game analysis and expertise
- Breaking down complex hockey situations for viewers
- Offering player evaluation based on his scouting background
- Bringing a personable approach to broadcasts
His national experience with NBC and TNT has made him a familiar voice to hockey fans across North America. This dual role with both the Kraken and national broadcasts gives him unique perspective on the league’s landscape.
Olczyk regularly visits Kraken Community Iceplex to observe practices and maintain close connections with the team.
Influence on Team Culture and Community
Olczyk’s influence extends beyond the broadcast booth. As a cancer survivor, he has become an inspirational figure within the organization and Seattle community.
After being diagnosed with stage 3 colon cancer and fighting through treatment, Olczyk brings perspective and resilience to the Kraken organization. His personal journey resonates with fans and players alike.
The former NHL player has embraced Seattle’s hockey culture, helping to educate new fans in an emerging market. His approachable style and deep knowledge make him an ideal ambassador for a franchise still establishing its identity.
Olczyk’s presence lends credibility to the young organization. His relationships throughout hockey, built over decades as a player, coach, and broadcaster, benefit the Kraken’s efforts to build connections across the league.
Broadcasting Career
Eddie Olczyk has built an impressive broadcasting career spanning both national networks and regional sports channels. His distinctive voice and analysis have made him one of hockey’s most recognizable commentators.
National Broadcasts Experience
Eddie Olczyk established himself as one of hockey’s premier voices through his extensive work with national broadcasters. Before joining the Kraken, he spent 15 seasons with the Chicago Blackhawks broadcast team. His national profile grew significantly during his tenure with NBC Sports, where he became the network’s lead analyst alongside play-by-play announcer Mike “Doc” Emrick.
When NBC lost NHL rights, Olczyk smoothly transitioned to TNT’s hockey coverage. He now balances approximately 50 NHL games with TNT, including playoff coverage, alongside his Kraken duties.
This dual role allows “Edzo” to maintain his national presence while developing roots with Seattle’s expansion franchise. His analysis combines technical insights with accessibility for new fans—a perfect fit for both established hockey markets and TNT’s entertainment-focused approach.
Partnership with John Forslund
Olczyk’s move to Seattle paired him with respected play-by-play announcer John Forslund, creating an immediate chemistry in the broadcast booth. Their relationship quickly developed into one of the NHL’s strongest broadcasting partnerships despite being relatively new.
Forslund, known for his precise calls and encyclopedic hockey knowledge, complements Olczyk’s analysis perfectly. The two bring different strengths that blend seamlessly during broadcasts.
Their partnership has helped establish credibility for the Kraken’s coverage during the franchise’s formative years. Fans and critics alike have praised their ability to educate new Seattle hockey fans while still satisfying hardcore enthusiasts.
The Forslund-Olczyk tandem represents a significant investment by the Kraken in building a first-class broadcast product from day one.
Color Commentary and Analysis with Root Sports
In 2022, Olczyk joined the Seattle Kraken broadcast team as the lead television analyst for Root Sports Northwest. He committed to covering approximately 45 Kraken games per season, bringing his expertise to the Pacific Northwest.
His approach balances detailed hockey analysis with accessibility for newer fans in the Seattle market. Olczyk’s commentary draws from his experience as both a player and coach, offering insights that casual viewers might miss.
Root Sports has integrated Olczyk into pre-game and intermission segments where his analysis shines. His preparation is evident in how he breaks down plays, identifying subtle techniques and strategic elements.
The position with Seattle represented a fresh start for Olczyk after his long Chicago tenure. He has embraced the Seattle community, often sharing his personal journey, including his battle with colon cancer, connecting with Kraken fans on a deeper level.
Eddie Olczyk’s Hockey Background
Eddie Olczyk, a decorated hockey figure, built an impressive career spanning 16 years in the NHL before transitioning to broadcasting. His journey from being a top draft pick to a Hall of Fame inductee showcases his significant impact on American hockey.
NHL Achievements and Teams
Eddie Olczyk was selected third overall in the 1984 NHL Entry Draft by the Chicago Blackhawks, beginning a stellar 16-year professional career. His NHL journey included notable stints with several teams, creating a lasting legacy across the league.
Olczyk played for six NHL franchises, with his most significant time spent with the Chicago Blackhawks, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Los Angeles Kings. With the Penguins, he reached the pinnacle of the sport, capturing the Stanley Cup in 1994.
Throughout his career, Olczyk tallied 342 goals and 452 assists for 794 points in 1,031 games. His offensive prowess and versatility made him a valuable asset on every team he joined.
Eddie Olczyk’s NHL Career Statistics
| Team | Seasons | Games | Goals | Assists | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago Blackhawks | 1984-87, 1998-2000 | 322 | 120 | 159 | 279 |
| Pittsburgh Penguins | 1996-98 | 152 | 53 | 85 | 138 |
| Los Angeles Kings | 1996 | 67 | 25 | 31 | 56 |
| Other Teams | Various | 490 | 144 | 177 | 321 |
Induction into the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame
Eddie Olczyk’s contributions to American hockey earned him a place in the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame, cementing his status as one of the country’s hockey greats. His induction recognized not just his playing career but his overall impact on the sport.
Beyond his NHL achievements, Olczyk represented Team USA in international competitions, including the 1984 Olympics. This international experience highlighted his standing as one of America’s premier hockey talents during his era.
The Hall of Fame honor acknowledges his role as a pioneer for American-born players in the NHL. Olczyk helped pave the way for future generations of U.S. hockey players, serving as an inspiration for young American athletes dreaming of NHL careers.
Chicago Blackhawks Legacy
Olczyk’s connection to the Chicago Blackhawks runs especially deep, beginning as the hometown hero when drafted in 1984. His initial tenure with the team established him as a fan favorite and reliable point producer in the Windy City.
After playing for several other franchises, Olczyk returned to Chicago for his final NHL seasons from 1998-2000. This homecoming reinforced his special relationship with the organization that gave him his start.
Following his playing career, Eddie strengthened his Blackhawks ties by joining their broadcast team. He served as a color commentator for many years, working with the Blackhawks until 2017 when he was diagnosed with stage 3 colon cancer.
His broadcasting excellence and deep knowledge of the game made him a beloved figure among Blackhawks fans, extending his legacy well beyond his playing days.
Seattle Kraken’s Recent Developments
The Seattle Kraken have made significant strides since their NHL debut, building a competitive team while fostering strong community connections in the Pacific Northwest. Their trajectory shows promising development both on and off the ice.
2022-2023 Regular Season Update
The Seattle Kraken had a dramatic turnaround in the 2022-2023 season. After a disappointing inaugural campaign, they shocked the hockey world by securing their first-ever playoff berth.
The team finished with a 46-28-8 record, good for 100 points and the first Wild Card spot in the Western Conference. This 40-point improvement from their debut season represented one of the largest year-over-year jumps in NHL history.
Their playoff run included a stunning first-round upset over the defending champion Colorado Avalanche before falling to the Dallas Stars in seven games during the second round.
Matty Beniers emerged as the franchise cornerstone, capturing the Calder Trophy as rookie of the year with 57 points (24 goals, 33 assists) in 80 games.
| Player | GP | G | A | PTS | +/- |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jared McCann | 79 | 40 | 30 | 70 | +17 |
| Matty Beniers | 80 | 24 | 33 | 57 | +14 |
| Vince Dunn | 81 | 14 | 50 | 64 | +28 |
Player Acquisitions and Roster Changes
The Kraken’s management has been strategic in building their roster through the 2022-2023 period. GM Ron Francis focused on adding scoring punch and veteran leadership to complement their young core.
Key acquisitions included Andre Burakovsky (5-year, $27.5M contract) and Oliver Bjorkstrand, who provided immediate offensive impact. The team also extended defenseman Vince Dunn (4-year, $29.4M) after his breakout season.
The Kraken continued developing their prospect pipeline, with Shane Wright and Ryker Evans progressing toward NHL readiness. Promising draft picks have bolstered their organizational depth.
New head coach Dan Bylsma replaced Dave Hakstol, bringing his Stanley Cup-winning experience to guide the team’s next phase of development.
Kraken Fan Engagement and Community Impact
Seattle’s hockey fans have embraced the Kraken with remarkable enthusiasm. Climate Pledge Arena consistently sells out its 17,100 capacity for home games, creating one of the NHL’s most vibrant atmospheres.
The Kraken Community Iceplex has become a focal point for hockey growth in the region. The facility hosts youth programs, adult leagues, and community events that have dramatically increased participation in the sport throughout Washington state.
The team launched the One Roof Foundation, which has invested over $5 million in local initiatives focusing on environmental justice, youth access to hockey, and addressing youth homelessness.
The Kraken Hockey Network has expanded its broadcasting reach, featuring the expert analysis of Eddie Olczyk alongside play-by-play announcer John Forslund, bringing Kraken games to a growing regional audience.
Professional Networks and Relationships
Eddie Olczyk has built an impressive network during his hockey career that extends into his broadcasting role with the Seattle Kraken.
Collaboration with Other NHL Executives
Olczyk’s transition to the Kraken didn’t happen in isolation. After talks with Chicago Blackhawks management broke down in 2022, he found a new home in Seattle. His relationship with the Kraken’s front office has been positive from the start.
The former player-turned-broadcaster maintains strong ties with NHL executives across the league. These connections prove valuable for the Kraken organization, which benefits from his insider perspective.
His working relationship with Seattle’s general manager Ron Francis stems from their playing days. Both men understand the ins and outs of hockey operations, creating a mutual respect that enhances their professional interactions.
Mentorship and Connections with Media Personnel
Olczyk’s broadcasting career has placed him alongside notable media figures. His most significant partnership is with play-by-play announcer John Forslund at the Kraken Hockey Network. Their chemistry in the booth stems from years of experience.
Eddie has also worked closely with analyst Alison Lukan, bringing different perspectives to Seattle’s broadcasts. This diverse team creates engaging content for fans.
Before joining Seattle, Olczyk built his broadcasting reputation at NBC and TNT, working national NHL broadcasts. These connections helped him land his current role with both the Kraken and TNT simultaneously.
| Olczyk’s Broadcasting Partners | Network | Years Together |
|---|---|---|
| John Forslund | Kraken Hockey Network | 2022-Present |
| JT Brown | Kraken Hockey Network | 2022-Present |
| Troy Murray | Chicago Blackhawks | 2006-2022 |
Impact of Past Teammates on Current Role
Olczyk’s 16-year playing career created a vast network of former teammates who now hold influential positions across the NHL. These relationships provide him with unique insights that enhance his broadcasting abilities.
His time in Chicago created deep connections with Blackhawks alumni, including Troy Murray, with whom he later shared broadcasting duties. These relationships didn’t end when he joined Seattle.
Former teammates who became coaches or executives often share candid perspectives with Olczyk. This level of trust allows him to bring nuanced analysis to Kraken broadcasts that other commentators might miss.
These personal connections help Olczyk bridge the gap between the technical aspects of hockey and the human stories behind the game.
Media and Publicity
Eddie Olczyk has become a prominent media figure for the Seattle Kraken since joining their broadcast team. His transition from the Chicago Blackhawks to Seattle created significant buzz in hockey broadcasting circles.
Coverage in the Seattle Times
The Seattle Times has featured Eddie Olczyk extensively since he joined the Kraken broadcast team in 2022. Their sports section regularly highlights his expert analysis and insider perspectives during game broadcasts.
Olczyk’s partnership with play-by-play announcer John Forslund has received particular attention. The chemistry between the two broadcasters has been praised for bringing both entertainment and educational value to Kraken telecasts.
Local writers have noted Olczyk’s ability to break down complex hockey situations into understandable segments for newer fans. This skill has proven especially valuable for the Kraken as a newer franchise still building its fanbase.
The Times has also covered Olczyk’s cancer journey and how it shaped his perspective on hockey and life. These personal stories have helped Seattle fans connect with him beyond his role as an analyst.
Public Perception and Media Interviews
Olczyk has established himself as an approachable media personality through various interviews and public appearances. His relationship with other broadcasters has been highlighted in multiple features, showing his collaborative approach to hockey coverage.
Fans have embraced Olczyk’s energetic style and occasional humor during broadcasts. His now-famous moment when he got down on his hands and knees during a broadcast exemplifies his engaging personality.
As a former player and coach, Olczyk brings credibility that resonates with both casual and dedicated hockey fans. His national broadcasting experience with TNT’s NHL coverage has given him wider recognition beyond the Seattle market.
Media interviews typically focus on his transition from Chicago to Seattle and how he’s adapted to covering a newer franchise. Olczyk consistently emphasizes the excitement of helping build hockey culture in the Pacific Northwest.
Contract Negotiations and Tenure
Eddie Olczyk’s departure from the Chicago Blackhawks sent shockwaves through the hockey world. After years as a beloved analyst in Chicago, contract negotiations between Olczyk and Blackhawks management broke down in 2022.
The split wasn’t what anyone expected. Olczyk, whose contract with Chicago had expired after the season, couldn’t reach terms on a new deal despite his deep roots in the Windy City.
“It was not an easy decision. But Chicago is home, it’ll always be home,” Olczyk explained after making his choice to join Seattle.
The Kraken offered Olczyk a different contract length than what the Blackhawks proposed, which proved to be a key factor in his decision. This flexibility appealed to Olczyk, who joined Seattle as they were coming off their inaugural season.
According to reports, Olczyk’s role with Seattle would be structured differently than his previous position. The veteran broadcaster would continue his national work while adding Kraken duties to his portfolio.
| Olczyk’s Broadcasting Timeline | Details |
|---|---|
| Chicago Blackhawks | Multi-year tenure ended 2022 |
| NBC/TNT | Continued national broadcasting duties |
| Seattle Kraken | Joined after inaugural season |
His experience calling games nationally for NBC and later TNT has allowed Olczyk to maintain a dual broadcasting role – something relatively rare in NHL broadcasting circles.
The Kraken gained not just an announcer but a respected hockey mind with intimate knowledge of the league’s inner workings.
Personal Life and Beyond Hockey
Eddie Olczyk’s life extends far beyond his hockey and broadcasting career. His deep passion for horse racing and close family ties show a man with diverse interests and strong personal connections.
Involvement in Horse Racing
Eddie Olczyk’s passion for horse racing rivals his love for hockey. He’s established himself as a respected horse racing analyst, regularly appearing on NBC’s coverage of major events like the Kentucky Derby and Breeders’ Cup.
His handicapping skills are impressive, with his most famous betting success coming in 2015. Olczyk correctly picked a Pick 6 at Del Mar racetrack, resulting in a payout of over $500,000.
“Horse racing gives me the same rush hockey did, just without the physical toll,” Olczyk once remarked.
He often attends races at tracks across the country, even while maintaining his busy NHL broadcasting schedule with the Seattle Kraken.
Family and Personal Interests
Family remains central to Olczyk’s life. His son Nick works alongside him in the Kraken broadcast booth, creating a unique father-son professional dynamic.
Despite joining the Kraken organization in 2022, Eddie maintains his permanent residence in Long Grove, a northwest suburb of Chicago, highlighting his deep connections to the Windy City where he spent significant parts of his playing career.
His battle with stage 3 colon cancer has become an important part of his story. Diagnosed in 2017, Olczyk has now been cancer-free for six years, using his platform to advocate for early screening.
The Olczyk family is tight-knit, with Eddie often speaking about how his wife Diana and their four children supported him during his cancer treatment.
Preparing for the Playoffs and Future Seasons
The Kraken’s push toward playoff contention remains a primary focus for Eddie Olczyk and the broadcast team. After joining ROOT Sports’ three-person coverage team, Olczyk has provided valuable insights during this critical growth period.
The 2024-25 season represents a pivotal moment for the franchise. Olczyk’s analysis has highlighted key performance metrics that will determine their playoff chances:
| Category | Current Ranking | Improvement Needed |
|---|---|---|
| Power Play | 22nd | +5 positions |
| Penalty Kill | 19th | +7 positions |
| Goals Against | 16th | +6 positions |
During a recent broadcast, Olczyk noted, “This team has the foundation to make noise in the playoffs.” His experience with championship teams gives weight to his assessments.
Long-Term Vision for the Kraken
Olczyk’s commitment to the Kraken extends beyond game analysis, aligning with the organization’s long-term vision. His battle with colon cancer and subsequent recovery has inspired many in the Seattle hockey community.
The broadcaster’s $750,000 annual contract reflects the organization’s investment in elite talent both on and off the ice. This investment mirrors their approach to building a sustainable contender through smart drafting and development.
Olczyk has embraced Seattle’s hockey culture. He frequently praises the fan engagement at Climate Pledge Arena. “The energy in this building rivals anything I’ve seen in Original Six cities,” he remarked during a recent telecast.
His relationship with fellow broadcasters John Forslund and JT Brown has created a cohesive presentation. It helps new fans understand the game while providing depth for hockey veterans.
