Overview of the Seattle Kraken Broadcast Network
The Seattle Kraken broadcast network delivers game coverage across TV, radio, and digital platforms, ensuring fans can follow every shift whether they are at home or on the move. This evergreen profile explains the primary play-by-play voices, color analysts, radio teams, and out-of-market options that make up the team’s media ecosystem. Understanding who announces the action and where each broadcast appears helps viewers choose the right channel and stream for every game.
Television Broadcasts and Play-by-Play Announcers
Most regional television broadcasts of Seattle Kraken games air on Root Sports Northwest, the main cable and satellite home for team content. The standard television setup features a play-by-play announcer who calls the action in real time, a color commentator who adds strategic insight and background, and a rinkside reporter providing locker-room updates and intermission features.
| Role | Name | Primary Responsibilities | Typical Appearances |
|---|---|---|---|
| Play-by-Play Announcer | John Forslund | Live narration of play, penalties, goals, and game flow | Most regional television games |
| Color Commentator | Dave Tomlinson | Tactical analysis, player evaluation, and contextual storytelling | Regional television games |
| Rinkside Reporter | Kaitlin Doubleday | Locker-room access, intermission features, and sideline updates | Select regional games |
John Forslund has been the longtime voice of the franchise on television, bringing a steady, play-by-play cadence that matches the pace of NHL hockey. Dave Tomlinson, a former player, contributes nuanced analysis about systems, matchups, and adjustments, while Kaitlin Doubleday focuses on storytelling and connecting the game to fan culture in the Pacific Northwest.
Radio Broadcast Teams and Game Coverage
For fans who prefer radio or who live outside the standard television footprint, the Kraken maintain a dedicated radio network that streams online and through local affiliates. Radio broadcasts typically split play-by-play and analysis across two hosts, allowing one voice to call the action while the other provides color commentary between whistles.
- Play-by-play announcer: Handles live narration, score updates, and on-ice communication.
- Color analyst: Offers real-time breakdowns, experience-based insights, and background on players and systems.
- Studio host: Manages pregame context, intermission summaries, and postgame reactions from the broadcast booth.
The radio team often mirrors the television commentators’ commitment to accuracy and clarity, with strong familiarity from longtime listeners who follow the team through every month of the season.
Out-of-Market and Streaming Options
National broadcasts on NBC, NBC Sports Gold, ESPN+, and other national partners carry many Kraken games, each with its own broadcast team. Out-of-market streaming through the NHL Center Ice or ESPN+ platforms typically uses the national feed, while local viewers with Root Sports can access the regional feed for additional context and Pacific Northwest perspective.
| Platform | Typical Broadcast Team | Availability | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Root Sports Northwest | Forslund, Tomlinson, DoubledayRegional (Washington, Oregon, Idaho) | Primary local TV home | |
| NBC / NBC Sports | National announcing teams | National, select games | Primarily national telecasts |
| NHL Center Ice / ESPN+ | Varies by game National streaming Out-of-market access
Behind the Broadcast: Preparation and Storylines
Effective Kraken coverage blends real-time narration with deeper storytelling that explains the strategic layers of hockey. Preseason broadcasts often focus on roster construction, line combinations, and development priorities, while regular-season telecasts dive into systems, special-teams schemes, and in-game adjustments. Color commentators leverage their playing experience to translate complex tactics into accessible insights, helping casual and devoted fans alike follow the nuances of each shift.
Broadcasters also track milestones, from first career points to 100-game milestones, and contextualize them within the team’s evolving identity. This blend of live action and background context supports a richer viewing experience that connects the present game to the franchise’s longer journey.
How to Follow the Kraken Across Platforms
To get the most from Seattle Kraken broadcasts, align your viewing method with the platform strengths. Root Sports Northwest offers the most consistent local coverage with familiar commentators, while national feeds bring different perspectives and occasional exclusive angles. Streaming services add flexibility, enabling you to watch on phones, tablets, or connected TVs when you cannot be in the arena or tied to a cable package.
- Check the TV schedule on the team and network sites to identify whether a game is regional or national.
- Root for Root Sports Northwest or the listed local affiliate to support the primary broadcast team.
- Use NHL Center Ice, ESPN+, or national partners for out-of-market games and additional feed options.
- Listen to radio broadcasts via local affiliates or the team app for on-the-go coverage.
- Follow postgame shows and podcasts for extended analysis, interviews, and behind-the-scenes context.
Conclusion: The Value of Consistent, Informed Broadcasts
The Seattle Kraken broadcast network gives fans multiple ways to experience hockey in the Pacific Northwest and beyond, pairing experienced voices with flexible viewing options. By clarifying who announces each game and where each broadcast appears, this profile helps you choose the right setup for every night. Consistent commentary, transparent storytelling, and reliable coverage across platforms make it easier to follow the team through a full season of highs, lows, and everything in between.