John Forslund – Seattle Kraken Announcer Marks Fifth Season with NHL Expansion Team
When it comes to the Seattle Kraken, few voices capture the action quite like John Forslund. As the television play-by-play announcer for the NHL’s newest franchise, Forslund brings decades of experience and his signature catchphrases to every broadcast. His distinct voice and professional delivery have quickly made him one of the most valuable assets in the Kraken organization since joining as their inaugural TV voice.
Forslund’s journey to Seattle came after a long stint with the Carolina Hurricanes, where he established himself as one of hockey’s premier broadcasters. His transition wasn’t without drama – he reportedly stood up to Carolina’s ownership before making his way west to join the expansion team.
Beyond the booth, Forslund has developed quite the reputation for his occasionally complicated relationship with team mascots, a storyline that has endeared him further to Kraken fans.
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John Forslund’s Biography
John Forslund has established himself as one of hockey’s most respected broadcasters throughout his distinguished career, moving from the Hartford Whalers to the Carolina Hurricanes before becoming the inaugural television voice of the Seattle Kraken.
Early Life and Education
Born in Springfield, Massachusetts, John Forslund developed his passion for hockey in the heart of New England. Growing up in this hockey-rich region, he was exposed to the sport from an early age, which helped shape his future career path.
Forslund attended Springfield College in his hometown, where he earned his degree in communications. During his college years, he began honing his broadcasting skills by working at the campus radio station, calling various sporting events.
His education provided the foundation for what would become a lengthy career in sports broadcasting. Forslund’s early immersion in hockey culture and formal training in communications created the perfect combination for his future success as a play-by-play announcer.
Career Beginnings in Broadcasting
Forslund’s professional broadcasting journey began in the minor leagues, where he cut his teeth calling games for the Springfield Indians of the American Hockey League. This opportunity allowed him to develop his distinctive announcing style and gain valuable experience.
His work with the Indians caught the attention of hockey executives at higher levels. Forslund’s meticulous preparation and smooth delivery distinguished him from other young broadcasters in the industry.
During this period, he developed his trademark phrases and timing that would later become familiar to NHL fans across North America. His attention to detail and ability to capture the excitement of hockey made him a rising star in sports broadcasting circles.
Hartford Whalers and Carolina Hurricanes
In 1991, Forslund joined the Hartford Whalers as their television play-by-play announcer, marking his entry into the NHL. When the franchise relocated to North Carolina in 1997, becoming the Hurricanes, Forslund moved with the team.
For 24 seasons, his voice became synonymous with Hurricanes hockey. Forslund called numerous memorable moments, including the team’s 2006 Stanley Cup championship. His passionate calls during their playoff runs endeared him to generations of fans.
Beyond his regular duties with Carolina, Forslund’s talents were recognized nationally. He worked for NBC Sports as a play-by-play announcer for national NHL broadcasts, handling regular season games, playoff matchups, and even Stanley Cup Finals.
| Forslund’s Carolina Tenure | Years |
|---|---|
| Hartford Whalers | 1991-1997 |
| Carolina Hurricanes | 1997-2020 |
| Total NHL Seasons | 29+ |
Transition to Seattle Kraken
In 2021, Forslund embarked on a new chapter in his career, accepting the position as the inaugural television broadcaster for the Seattle Kraken. This marked a significant move after his long tenure with the Hurricanes organization.
Forslund took the Seattle job “sight unseen” during the COVID-19 pandemic, showing his commitment to this new opportunity. The chance to be part of an expansion franchise from day one presented a unique challenge that appealed to the veteran broadcaster.
With the Kraken, Forslund has continued his tradition of excellent broadcasting while helping to introduce hockey to new fans in the Pacific Northwest. His experienced voice has provided credibility to the fledgling franchise.
Forslund’s move to Seattle allowed him to craft the narrative for a brand new team, something he described as a “truly special” opportunity. His wealth of hockey knowledge has proven invaluable as the Kraken build their identity in the NHL.
Seattle Kraken Franchise Overview
The Seattle Kraken stormed into the NHL as the league’s 32nd franchise, bringing professional hockey back to the Pacific Northwest with a splash of maritime mystique and community-focused approach.
Inaugural Season
The Seattle Kraken officially began their NHL journey in the 2021-22 season after paying a $650 million expansion fee. The team finished with a 27-49-6 record, placing last in the Pacific Division.
Climate Pledge Arena, their state-of-the-art home venue, opened in October 2021 after a $1.15 billion renovation of the former KeyArena. The arena’s name reflects the franchise’s commitment to environmental sustainability, aiming to be the first carbon-neutral arena in the world.
The Kraken selected their inaugural roster through the 2021 NHL Expansion Draft on July 21, 2021, where they chose one player from each NHL team except the Vegas Golden Knights. Mark Giordano was named the first captain in franchise history.
Team Leadership and Management
The Kraken’s front office is led by CEO Tod Leiweke, who brings extensive NHL experience from his time with the Minnesota Wild and Tampa Bay Lightning. His vision helped shape the franchise from its earliest stages.
Ron Francis, a Hockey Hall of Famer with 1,798 career points, serves as the team’s first General Manager. Francis signed a five-year contract worth approximately $25 million to build the franchise from scratch.
Head coach Dave Hakstol was hired on June 24, 2021, after previously coaching the Philadelphia Flyers and the University of North Dakota. The ownership group is led by David Bonderman, Jerry Bruckheimer, and several local investors.
| Leadership Position | Name | Previous Experience |
|---|---|---|
| CEO | Tod Leiweke | Tampa Bay Lightning, NFL, Seattle Seahawks |
| General Manager | Ron Francis | Carolina Hurricanes GM, Hall of Fame player |
| Head Coach | Dave Hakstol | Philadelphia Flyers, University of North Dakota |
Fan Base and Community Engagement
The Kraken cultivated an immediate and passionate fan base. Over 32,000 season ticket deposits were secured within the first 24 hours of availability, demonstrating the region’s hunger for hockey.
The franchise actively engages with the community through initiatives like “One Roof Foundation,” focusing on youth hockey, environmental justice, and fighting homelessness. The team has invested $10 million in youth hockey programs across the Pacific Northwest.
The Kraken’s distinct brand identity, featuring a deep sea color palette and the mythological sea monster logo, has resonated strongly with fans. Merchandise sales ranked among the top in the NHL after the team’s launch.
Climate Pledge Arena regularly sells out its 17,100 hockey capacity, creating a vibrant, electric game atmosphere that has quickly established itself as one of the most distinctive home-ice advantages in the league.
Broadcasting Career Highlights
John Forslund has established himself as one of hockey’s most respected voices through decades of exceptional broadcasting work. His distinctive style and deep knowledge of the game have made him a favorite among fans across multiple networks and teams.
National Hockey League Coverage
Forslund’s NHL broadcasting journey began with the Hartford Whalers, which later became the Carolina Hurricanes. He served as the Hurricanes’ play-by-play announcer for 25 years, becoming synonymous with the team’s biggest moments.
His national profile grew significantly during his tenure with NBC Sports, where he called regular season games and Stanley Cup Playoff matchups. Forslund became known for his precise calls and ability to capture the excitement of crucial moments.
Network executives valued his professionalism and hockey knowledge, regularly assigning him to high-profile matchups. During playoff seasons, Forslund would juggle team duties with national broadcast responsibilities.
His contract with NBC reportedly paid him in the mid-six figures annually, reflecting his status as one of the network’s primary hockey voices.
Role at Root Sports
When the Seattle Kraken joined the NHL, they targeted Forslund as their television play-by-play announcer. He signed with the expansion franchise in 2021, bringing immediate credibility to their broadcast team.
At Root Sports Northwest, Forslund quickly established chemistry with his broadcast partners. His preparation and attention to detail have become hallmarks of Kraken broadcasts.
Forslund’s responsibilities extend beyond game calls. He participates in team content creation and serves as an ambassador for hockey in the Pacific Northwest region.
His multi-year contract with the Kraken is reportedly worth approximately $750,000 annually, making him one of the highest-paid regional sports broadcasters in hockey.
Notable Broadcasting Moments
Forslund has delivered numerous memorable calls throughout his career. His signature phrases like “That’s hockey, baby!” and “He scores!” have become part of hockey’s lexicon.
Some of his most iconic work came during the Carolina Hurricanes’ 2006 Stanley Cup run, where his emotional calls captured the franchise’s historic achievement. Fans still reference his call of the final seconds when the Hurricanes clinched their first championship.
With the Kraken, Forslund has already created several signature moments, including the call of the franchise’s first-ever goal and their inaugural playoff appearance in 2023.
| Career Highlight | Year | Network |
|---|---|---|
| Carolina Hurricanes PxP | 1995-2020 | Fox Sports Carolinas |
| NBC Sports National Broadcasts | 2011-2021 | NBC |
| Seattle Kraken PxP | 2021-Present | Root Sports |
| Stanley Cup Final Coverage | 2006, 2008, 2013, 2019 | NBC/Hurricanes |
Impact and Contributions
John Forslund has made significant contributions to hockey broadcasting through his distinctive voice, analytical depth, and authentic connection with fans. His commitment to excellence has elevated the Seattle Kraken’s broadcast presence while shaping the broader landscape of sports commentary.
Influence on Sports Commentating
Forslund’s impact on sports commentating extends far beyond the Kraken’s broadcast booth. His signature phrases and ability to capture dramatic moments have become hallmarks of hockey broadcasting. The veteran announcer brings over three decades of experience to Seattle, having previously served as the voice of the Hartford Whalers and Carolina Hurricanes.
His broadcasting style combines technical hockey knowledge with passionate storytelling. This approach has earned him recognition as one of the most respected voices in hockey.
What separates Forslund from others is his preparation. He studies teams meticulously, ensuring viewers receive insightful commentary rather than surface-level observations. This dedication has made him a favorite among hardcore hockey fans and newcomers alike.
Partnerships and Collaborations
Forslund’s chemistry with broadcast partners has significantly enhanced the Kraken viewing experience. His partnership with analyst JT Brown has quickly developed into one of hockey’s most informative booths. The pair is further complemented by analytics expert Alison Lukan on the Kraken Hockey Network.
Before joining Seattle, Forslund formed a legendary partnership with color commentator Tripp Tracy in Carolina. Their 25-year collaboration became one of the longest-running broadcast duos in NHL history.
Forslund’s national work has been equally impressive. His play-by-play duties for NBC and later TNT broadened his influence while showcasing his versatility across different broadcast environments.
Mentoring and Community Involvement
Forslund’s contributions extend to mentoring emerging broadcast talent. He has provided guidance to Everett Fitzhugh, the Kraken’s radio play-by-play announcer and the NHL’s first Black team broadcaster. This mentorship reflects Forslund’s commitment to developing the next generation of hockey voices.
In the community, Forslund frequently participates in Kraken fan events and charity initiatives. He makes himself accessible at team functions, understanding his role extends beyond the broadcast booth.
Under the leadership of Patrick Crumb, president of AT&T Sports Networks, Forslund has helped establish the Kraken’s broadcast identity from the franchise’s inception. He took the role “sight unseen,” demonstrating his belief in the organization’s vision.
Forslund’s community work includes youth hockey initiatives and fundraising efforts. He uses his platform to grow the sport in the Pacific Northwest, where hockey traditions are still developing.
Media and Public Relations
John Forslund’s expertise extends beyond the broadcast booth into media relations. He brings experience from his days with the Carolina Hurricanes, where he served in a dual role as both announcer and public relations director.
Interaction with Media Outlets
Forslund’s relationship with media outlets has been instrumental in building the Seattle Kraken’s brand. His extensive NBC Sports background provided immediate credibility to the expansion franchise’s media operations. The Kraken strategically leveraged his national reputation when they introduced him as their TV broadcaster in early 2021.
The partnership between ROOT SPORTS and the Kraken features Forslund as the centerpiece. His hiring was announced alongside the television rights deal, showing how central his role is to the team’s media strategy.
Forslund took on the Seattle position “sight unseen” during the pandemic, demonstrating his belief in the organization’s vision. His willingness to commit to the Kraken before seeing their facilities speaks to the mutual trust between Forslund and management.
Social Media Presence
Forslund maintains a professional but approachable social media presence that complements his on-air persona. His accounts serve as extensions of the broadcast, offering insights and updates that engage Kraken fans beyond game days.
Unlike some broadcasters who remain distant from digital platforms, Forslund embraces them as tools for connecting with the audience. His posts often provide context that enhances viewers’ understanding of upcoming matchups.
The Kraken communications team has integrated Forslund’s voice into their broader digital strategy. His professional profile shows his connection to the team across multiple platforms, creating a consistent media identity.
Forslund’s social presence reinforces his position as the definitive voice of Kraken hockey. By maintaining active engagement online, he helps the new franchise establish deeper connections with fans still forming their relationship with the team.
The Business of Hockey Broadcasting
Hockey broadcasting has transformed dramatically in recent years. Teams like the Seattle Kraken have made bold moves in how they deliver games to fans. The business side involves complex media rights, regional network challenges, and technological innovations that continue to reshape how we experience the sport.
Evolution of Sports Media Rights
The NHL’s media landscape has shifted significantly over the past decade. Traditional broadcast deals once dominated, but streaming services have disrupted the market. When the Kraken entered the league, they faced a crucial decision about their broadcasting future.
Initially, the Kraken partnered with ROOT Sports Northwest, a regional sports network (RSN) owned partially by AT&T Sports Networks. This alignment followed the traditional model many NHL teams employed.
However, the Kraken eventually took a bold step by creating their own network to broadcast games. This move represented the growing trend of teams taking more control over their media rights and distribution channels.
The NHL’s national television contracts with TNT and ESPN provide baseline exposure, but regional rights remain critical to team economics. John Forslund’s role bridges both worlds, as he works for the Kraken’s television broadcasts and national platforms.
Regional Sports Networks and Market Dynamics
Regional Sports Networks (RSNs) have traditionally been the backbone of local hockey coverage, but the model faces unprecedented challenges. The collapse of several RSNs has forced teams like the Kraken to innovate.
The Kraken’s decision to launch their own network came amid widespread turbulence in the RSN world. By partnering with TEGNA, the team increased broadcast accessibility through both traditional TV and streaming options.
For emerging franchises like Seattle, market penetration is essential. The Seattle media market ranks 12th nationally, making it valuable territory for hockey growth.
Regional broadcasts typically comprise 70-75 games per season, with national networks carrying the remainder. This split creates both challenges and opportunities for broadcasters like Forslund, who must balance team and national duties.
The economics can be substantial. Regional sports networks have historically paid NHL teams between $20-40 million annually for local broadcast rights, though these figures vary widely by market size and team popularity.
Advancements in Sports Broadcasting Technology
Technological innovation has revolutionized hockey broadcasting, with the Kraken embracing cutting-edge approaches. High-definition broadcasts are now standard, with 4K becoming increasingly common for premium events.
Advanced analytics have transformed on-air presentation, with experts like Alison Lukan bringing data-driven insights to Kraken broadcasts alongside Forslund and JT Brown. This three-person booth represents the modern approach to hockey commentary.
Mobile viewing options have become essential. The Kraken’s broadcast strategy incorporates multiple digital entry points for fans, recognizing that younger viewers often consume content on smartphones and tablets rather than traditional television.
Augmented reality graphics and player tracking technology provide viewers with enhanced information during broadcasts. Play-by-play announcers like Forslund must adapt their craft to incorporate these elements seamlessly.
Broadcast innovation continues at a rapid pace, with immersive audio, multiple camera angles, and interactive features becoming increasingly common in NHL productions.
Cultural and Regional Impact
John Forslund’s presence as the TV voice of the Seattle Kraken extends far beyond just calling games. His experienced broadcasting style has helped new hockey fans in the Pacific Northwest connect with the sport while elevating the Kraken’s presence in a region previously untapped by the NHL.
Promoting Hockey in the Pacific Northwest
Forslund’s distinctive play-by-play commentary has become synonymous with Kraken hockey throughout Washington, Oregon, Idaho, and Montana. His ability to explain the game clearly helps newcomers understand hockey’s nuances, critical in a region where the sport hasn’t traditionally dominated.
When the Kraken launched as an expansion team, Forslund’s credibility from his Carolina days instantly gave the franchise broadcasting legitimacy. His voice has become a familiar companion for fans across the Pacific Northwest during Kraken broadcasts on ROOT Sports.
Forslund frequently participates in community events across the region, helping build the Kraken’s identity beyond Seattle proper. His approachable style has made him a fan favorite, with many supporters expressing their appreciation for his work as the TV voice of the Kraken.
Contribution to the Sport’s Growth in New Markets
Forslund brings unparalleled experience to the expansion franchise, having spent over 15 years with the Carolina Hurricanes. This background helps him understand what it takes to build a hockey culture in non-traditional markets.
Working alongside others like J.T. Brown on broadcasts and Everett Fitzhugh, who made history as the first Black announcer in NHL history on radio, Forslund is part of a broadcast team that reflects the Kraken’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.
The Seattle ownership group has been praised for hitting all the right notes in building culture, with Forslund as a centerpiece of their media strategy. His professional delivery and enthusiasm help legitimize the franchise for both casual viewers and dedicated hockey fans.
Legacy and Future
John Forslund’s impact on hockey broadcasting extends far beyond the immediate game calls. His distinctive voice and trusted analysis have shaped how fans experience the sport, while also setting a high bar for future commentators.
John Forslund’s Legacy in Hockey
Forslund has carved out a remarkable legacy as the television voice of the Seattle Kraken. His journey from the Carolina Hurricanes to becoming the inaugural play-by-play announcer for an expansion franchise demonstrates his elite status in hockey broadcasting.
What separates Forslund is his preparation and dedication to the craft. He arrives hours before each game, meticulously studying both teams and developing storytelling angles that enhance the viewer experience.
Fans consistently praise his ability to capture dramatic moments with precise vocabulary and perfect timing. His signature calls like “That’s hockey, baby!” have become part of the sport’s lexicon.
The respect Forslund commands extends to players and coaches who appreciate his fair, knowledgeable approach to broadcasting.
Future of Sports Commentary
Forslund’s work with the Kraken represents a significant evolution in hockey broadcasting. His approach balances traditional play-by-play with modern analytics, creating a blueprint for future commentators.
As streaming platforms expand and viewing habits change, Forslund has adapted by engaging with fans through social media while maintaining professional standards. This flexibility will be crucial for broadcasters moving forward.
Young announcers regularly cite Forslund as an influence, studying his technique and preparation. His mentorship extends beyond formal relationships, as aspiring broadcasters analyze his calls for educational purposes.
The Kraken organization views Forslund as instrumental in building their brand identity. His voice has become synonymous with the team during their crucial formative years.
Industry insiders predict Forslund’s legacy will ultimately be defined by his ability to make an expansion franchise feel established through his authoritative, trustworthy broadcasting style.
