J. T. Brown – Seattle Kraken Analyst Brings Valuable Insights to Hockey Broadcasts
J.T. Brown has become a familiar voice for hockey fans as the TV color analyst for the Seattle Kraken. Before stepping into the broadcasting booth, Brown enjoyed a solid NHL playing career that spanned nearly a decade.
His transition from player to analyst came after his retirement in 2021, bringing his unique perspective and insights to Kraken broadcasts.
The former Burnsville, Minnesota native brings valuable firsthand experience to his role. He competed at hockey’s highest level from 2011 to 2021 with teams including Tampa Bay, Anaheim, and Minnesota. Brown’s understanding of the game’s nuances allows him to break down complex plays and strategies in ways that enhance the viewing experience for Kraken fans.
Beyond his work with the Kraken, Brown has established himself as a Twitch streaming partner, connecting with fans in digital spaces. His multifaceted approach to hockey engagement – from the ice to the broadcast booth to online platforms – represents the evolving nature of how former players continue contributing to the sport after their playing days conclude.
Contents
Biographical Overview
J.T. Brown’s path from college hockey standout to NHL player and broadcaster showcases resilience and adaptability. His journey spans from collegiate success to professional hockey and finally to the broadcast booth with the Seattle Kraken.
Early Life and Career
Born Joshua Thomas Brown on July 2, 1990, in High Point, North Carolina, J.T. Brown stands 5’10” and weighs 175 pounds. He made his mark in collegiate hockey at the University of Minnesota-Duluth, where he developed his skills as a forward.
His time with the Bulldogs proved crucial to his development. Brown’s collegiate performance caught the attention of NHL scouts, despite going undrafted in the entry draft.
The Minnesota-Duluth years laid the foundation for his professional career, demonstrating his speed and competitive nature. These formative years shaped his playing style and prepared him for the challenges of professional hockey.
NHL Journey
Brown’s professional career began when he signed with the Tampa Bay Lightning as an undrafted free agent. His NHL tenure included stints with the Lightning, Anaheim Ducks, and Minnesota Wild.
As a right winger, Brown became known for his energy and work ethic rather than scoring prowess. His versatility made him valuable to multiple franchises throughout his career.
Brown’s professional experience extended internationally when he played in Sweden with IF Björklöven during the 2019-2020 season. This European stint added new dimensions to his game and perspective.
Career NHL Statistics:
| Team | Games Played | Goals | Assists | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tampa Bay | 286 | 19 | 42 | 61 |
| Anaheim | 28 | 1 | 3 | 4 |
| Minnesota | 56 | 3 | 5 | 8 |
Transition to Broadcasting
Brown retired from playing after the 2020-2021 season, pivoting seamlessly to broadcasting. In June 2021, he made history by becoming the first television color analyst for the Seattle Kraken franchise.
His experience as a recent player gives him unique insights into the modern game. Brown brings fresh perspective to the broadcast booth, having competed against many current players.
His social media presence identifies him as a “TV Color Analyst for @SeattleKraken” along with “Former NHL Player” and “Twitch Partner.” This digital footprint reflects his successful career transition.
Brown’s broadcasting approach draws from his playing days, providing viewers with authentic analysis from someone who understands the game’s nuances firsthand.
Seattle Kraken Contributions
J.T. Brown has made significant contributions to the Seattle Kraken organization since retiring as a player in 2021. His transition from NHL forward to broadcaster marked an important milestone for the expansion franchise as they built their identity.
Inaugural Season Participation
Brown joined the Kraken organization during their critical formation period, becoming an integral part of the franchise’s identity from day one. When the Kraken announced Brown as their first television color analyst in franchise history, it represented a meaningful commitment to diverse voices in hockey broadcasting.
Working closely with Kraken CEO Tod Leiweke, Brown helped establish the team’s community presence before they even hit the ice. His involvement went beyond the broadcast booth, participating in fan events and community initiatives that helped build excitement for Seattle’s new NHL franchise.
Brown’s perspective as a recently retired player proved invaluable during the inaugural 2021-2022 season as he could provide current insights into opponents and strategies while the expansion team found its footing.
Work with Broadcast Team
Brown formed an effective partnership with acclaimed play-by-play announcer John Forslund on ROOT Sports Northwest, creating a distinctive broadcasting identity for the new franchise. Their chemistry developed quickly, with Brown’s playing experience complementing Forslund’s veteran broadcasting expertise.
Brown joined a broadcast team that included Everett Fitzhugh, making the Kraken’s media presence one of the most diverse in professional hockey. His analysis style focuses on tactical breakdowns and player development insights, drawing from his 365 NHL games of experience.
What sets Brown apart is his willingness to address social issues within hockey. As noted by The Seattle Times, Brown was not initially an activist during his playing days, but he evolved into a champion for diversity and inclusion within the sport.
The Kraken broadcasting team has received positive reviews from fans and critics alike, with Brown’s fresh perspective and candid analysis earning particular praise.
Professional Achievements
J.T. Brown built a solid NHL career spanning 365 games, establishing himself as a high-energy forward who brought intensity and versatility to each team he played for. His journey through Tampa Bay, Anaheim, and Minnesota showcased his development as both a player and a professional.
Highlights with Tampa Bay Lightning
Brown’s most productive years came with the Tampa Bay Lightning, where he developed his reputation as a relentless forechecker. After signing as an undrafted free agent out of Minnesota-Duluth, Brown quickly made his presence felt. His speed and tenacity earned him a regular spot in the Lightning lineup.
The pinnacle of Brown’s Tampa Bay tenure came during the 2015 Stanley Cup Playoffs, where he helped the Lightning reach the Stanley Cup Final. Though they ultimately fell to the Chicago Blackhawks, Brown’s defensive responsibility and forechecking were valuable assets during the run.
Brown recorded 61 of his career 72 NHL points while wearing Tampa Bay’s colors. His most productive season came in 2015-16 when he tallied 22 points (8 goals, 14 assists).
Brown’s Lightning Statistics:
| Season | Games | Goals | Assists | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2011-12 | 5 | 0 | 1 | 1 |
| 2013-14 | 63 | 4 | 15 | 19 |
| 2014-15 | 52 | 3 | 6 | 9 |
| 2015-16 | 78 | 8 | 14 | 22 |
| 2016-17 | 64 | 3 | 3 | 6 |
| 2017-18 | 24 | 1 | 3 | 4 |
Anaheim Ducks Tenure
Brown joined the Anaheim Ducks midway through the 2017-18 season after being claimed off waivers. While his time in Anaheim was brief, spanning just 23 games, Brown continued to bring energy to his role as a bottom-six forward.
His contributions with the Ducks weren’t primarily measured in offensive statistics. Brown recorded 2 goals and 1 assist during his tenure, but his value extended beyond the scoresheet. He maintained his reputation as a dependable penalty killer and defensive forward.
The Ducks utilized Brown’s speed and physicality in a checking role, where he averaged just over 10 minutes of ice time per game. His willingness to block shots and finish checks made him a respected teammate during his short stint in Anaheim.
Minnesota Wild Impact
Brown’s final NHL stop was with his hometown Minnesota Wild, where he signed a two-year contract worth $1.375 million in July 2018. Playing for Minnesota held special significance for Brown, who had starred collegiately at the University of Minnesota-Duluth.
With the Wild, Brown appeared in 56 games during the 2018-19 season. He registered 8 points (3 goals, 5 assists) while continuing to excel in his role as a defensively responsible forward. His average ice time of 7:46 per game reflected his specialized role.
Beyond his on-ice contributions, Brown made meaningful community impacts during his time in Minnesota. His connection to the state enhanced his popularity with fans despite limited offensive production.
The 2018-19 season would mark Brown’s final NHL campaign before transitioning to the minor leagues and eventually retiring to join the Seattle Kraken broadcast team in 2021.
Advocacy and Community Engagement
J.T. Brown’s impact with the Seattle Kraken extends far beyond his role as a broadcaster. His commitment to social justice issues and creating a more inclusive hockey environment has made him a respected voice for change in the sport.
Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives
Brown has long been a champion for diversity in hockey. Before joining the Kraken, he raised his fist during the national anthem in 2017 as a Tampa Bay Lightning player to protest police brutality and racial inequality.
This activism made him an appealing hire for the Kraken, who valued his community work. The team recognized his passion for making hockey more accessible to underrepresented groups.
Brown joined the NHL’s Player Inclusion Coalition, where he works to make hockey welcoming for everyone. His efforts include supporting the Black Girl Hockey Club and serving on Fan Inclusion Committees.
“Hockey should be for everybody, regardless of race, gender, or sexuality,” Brown has stated in his advocacy work.
Hockey is for Everyone Ambassador
Brown has embraced his role as a “Hockey is for Everyone” ambassador with genuine enthusiasm. During Pride Month, he publicly shared why Pride celebrations matter to him personally.
“I’ll be celebrating the LGBTQ+ community all month long,” Brown noted in his support for the Seattle Pride Hockey Association. His advocacy helps create safe spaces for LGBTQ+ hockey fans and players.
Brown frequently participates in community events, youth hockey clinics, and speaks at schools about inclusion. His social media presence, where he identifies with he/him pronouns, further demonstrates his allyship.
The Kraken have highlighted Brown’s work through various media channels, emphasizing the importance of visible representation in hockey leadership positions.
Broadcasting Career
J.T. Brown made a swift transition from NHL player to broadcaster when he joined the Seattle Kraken in 2021. His move into the television booth marked an important milestone for diversity in hockey broadcasting.
Television Analyst Role
Brown retired from his playing career to become the first television color analyst in Seattle Kraken history. The former NHL forward was announced as part of the inaugural broadcast team on Monday, June 21, 2021.
His hiring demonstrated the Kraken’s commitment to building a diverse organization from the ground up. Brown brought substantial hockey knowledge from his 365-game NHL career spanning seven seasons with Tampa Bay, Anaheim and Minnesota.
The transition from player to analyst happened quickly for Brown. Before accepting the Kraken position, he had previously played professionally in Sweden.
He was tasked with bringing player insights and analysis to Root Sports broadcasts for the expansion franchise’s debut season.
Partnering with John Forslund
Brown was paired with veteran play-by-play announcer John Forslund, creating an experienced broadcasting duo despite Brown’s newcomer status to television. Forslund brought decades of NHL broadcasting experience, having previously called games for the Carolina Hurricanes.
The partnership evolved into a historic achievement when Brown and Kraken radio voice Everett Fitzhugh made NHL history as the first all-Black broadcasting team during a Kraken road game. This milestone happened when Fitzhugh temporarily joined the TV broadcast with Brown.
Their chemistry developed through regular Zoom meetings and practice sessions before the inaugural season. The Kraken invested in helping Brown refine his broadcasting skills, recognizing his potential to connect with viewers through his recent playing experience and personable approach.
Personal Life
J.T. Brown’s life outside of hockey reveals his strong family connections and diverse interests that have shaped his journey from player to broadcaster with the Seattle Kraken.
Family and Personal Interests
J.T. Brown was born in High Point, North Carolina but was raised in Rosemount, Minnesota. His father, Ted Brown, had a notable career with the Minnesota Vikings, bringing athletic excellence to the family legacy.
After retiring from playing hockey in August 2021, Brown smoothly transitioned to becoming a color analyst for the Seattle Kraken. He works with an impressive broadcasting team that includes John Forlund and Eddie Olczyk.
Brown maintains an active social media presence with over 28,000 followers on Instagram, where he identifies himself as a “TV Color Analyst for @SeattleKraken — Former NHL Player — Twitch Partner.” His engagement with gaming through Twitch shows his interests extend beyond hockey.
Brown’s personal style includes meaningful tattoos that tell his life story, with each design representing important chapters in his journey both as an athlete and individual.
Family remains central to Brown’s life. His wife Lexi LaFleur Brown occasionally shares emotional moments from their family life on social media, giving fans glimpses into their personal world.
Social Media and Outreach
J.T. Brown has built a strong digital presence beyond his broadcasting role with the Seattle Kraken, connecting with hockey fans through various platforms while raising awareness for important causes.
Interaction with Fans via Twitch
Brown stands out among NHL personalities as an active Twitch Partner, streaming video games and engaging directly with hockey fans in a digital space few professional athletes occupy. His Twitch channel became a pioneering platform in hockey circles, allowing him to break down barriers between players and fans.
During his playing days, Brown used streaming to show a different side of his personality that fans rarely saw on the ice. This digital presence has carried over seamlessly to his analyst role with the Kraken.
Brown’s social media footprint extends beyond gaming. With over 28,000 followers on Instagram, he regularly shares glimpses of his broadcasting work and personal life.
His digital platform has also provided space for advocacy. As one of hockey’s most prominent Black voices, Brown has used his reach to promote diversity initiatives and address social justice issues affecting the sport and broader community.
Cultural Impact in NHL
J.T. Brown has become a significant figure in NHL history, breaking barriers and creating pathways for people of color in hockey. His actions both on and off the ice have reshaped conversations about diversity in a sport historically dominated by white players and personalities.
Milestones for People of Color in Hockey
Brown’s role with the Seattle Kraken represents a pivotal moment for diversity in hockey broadcasting. In 2022, he made history alongside Everett Fitzhugh as part of the first all-Black broadcast team for a televised NHL game. This watershed moment came after the Kraken hired Brown specifically because of his “activism and community work” on improving diversity within hockey.
Brown’s path wasn’t easy. In 2017, he became the first NHL player to protest during the national anthem, raising his fist to highlight racial inequality. This brave stance resulted in death threats but cemented his role as a trailblazer.
His position as a Black analyst in a predominantly white sport represents a crucial step toward greater representation and signals the NHL’s gradual evolution on diversity issues.
Influence on Future Generations
Brown’s impact extends beyond his personal achievements to inspiring younger generations of hockey players and broadcasters of color. His outspoken advocacy has helped normalize discussions about race in NHL circles and opened doors previously closed to minorities.
As part of the Kraken organization, Brown has helped set the bar for diversity and inclusion in the NHL. His visibility gives young people of color a role model in both playing and broadcasting aspects of professional hockey.
Brown’s willingness to celebrate and support the LGBTQ+ community further demonstrates his commitment to making hockey truly inclusive for all. This comprehensive approach to advocacy makes him particularly influential among young players navigating their identities.
Recognition and Awards
J.T. Brown has received recognition throughout his hockey career and in his broadcasting role with the Seattle Kraken. His transition from player to analyst marked a significant career pivot that brought new accolades.
Honors and Acknowledgements
Brown’s hiring by the Seattle Kraken in June 2021 as a television analyst was itself a notable distinction. The Kraken specifically sought him out for his activism and community work, particularly regarding diversity in hockey.
Before joining the broadcast booth, Brown established himself with several NHL teams including the Tampa Bay Lightning, Anaheim Ducks, and Minnesota Wild. His playing career included appearances with these organizations:
Teams and Statistics:
| Team | Seasons | Games | Goals | Assists | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tampa Bay Lightning | 2011-2018 | 286 | 20 | 41 | 61 |
| Anaheim Ducks | 2018 | 23 | 1 | 3 | 4 |
| Minnesota Wild | 2018-2019 | 56 | 3 | 5 | 8 |
Since joining Root Sports Northwest as a color commentator, Brown has brought a fresh perspective to Kraken broadcasts. His insights have been valued by viewers and the organization alike.
