The Seattle Kraken is set to make its first playoff appearance in 2021, and the city of Seattle is abuzz with anticipation. The Kraken is the newest professional sports team to call Seattle home, joining the Seattle Sonics, Seahawks, and Mariners, who have all had their own successes since their respective inceptions. As the Kraken prepare to make their mark on the city, it begs the question: how will their first playoff appearance compare to the initial success of the Sonics, Seahawks, and Mariners?
The Seattle Sonics were the first professional sports team to call Seattle home, joining the NBA in 1967. In their first season, the Sonics finished with a record of 23-59 and missed the playoffs. However, they would go on to make the playoffs in seven of the next eight seasons, winning the NBA Championship in 1979.
The Seattle Seahawks joined the NFL in 1976 and made an immediate impact. In their first season, they finished with a record of 9-7 and made the playoffs, where they lost in the first round. The Seahawks would go on to make the playoffs in five of their first six seasons, winning the AFC Championship in 1983.
The Seattle Mariners joined Major League Baseball in 1977 and had a rocky start. In their first season, they finished with a record of 64-98 and missed the playoffs. However, they would go on to make the playoffs in five of their next six seasons, winning the American League Championship in 1995.
The Seattle Kraken will be looking to replicate the initial success of their predecessors when they make their first playoff appearance in 2021. While it is difficult to predict how successful they will be, it is clear that they have the potential to be a major force in the NHL. With a talented roster and a passionate fan base, the Kraken are poised to make a lasting impact on Seattle sports.
The initial success of the Sonics, Seahawks, and Mariners set a high bar for the Kraken to reach. While it may be difficult for them to replicate the success of their predecessors, it is clear that they have what it takes to make an impact on Seattle sports. With a talented roster and a passionate fan base, the Kraken are sure to make their mark when they make their first playoff appearance in 2021.
