Eddie Olczyk, a longtime voice of the Seattle Kraken’s regional broadcasts, announced on social media that he will be stepping down from his analyst role, citing a desire to return home and spend more time with his family.
A Personal Decision
The move comes after a distinguished career that began in the NHL as both a player and a coach, and after he publicly disclosed a battle with stage‑3 colon cancer in 2018 that he has since overcome. Olczyk assured fans that his departure is not health‑related and that he will continue to contribute to national NHL coverage through the TNT package.
His exit leaves a noticeable gap in the Kraken’s broadcast booth, a space that has been a staple for viewers since the franchise’s inception. The team has indicated that there are currently no plans to fill the vacancy, at least in the immediate term.
The Olczyk family’s connection to the organization runs deep; his son, Nick Olczyk, now serves as a commentator for the Utah Mammoth, while his brother, Ricky Olczyk, has been an assistant general manager with Seattle since the team’s first season.
Colleagues and peers have begun to reflect on Olczyk’s impact, with veteran broadcaster John Forslund and former player‑turned‑analyst J.T. Brown both expressing admiration for his insight and dedication.
As the Kraken look ahead, the national audience will still catch Olczyk’s expertise on TNT’s NHL coverage, ensuring that his analytical voice remains part of the sport’s broader narrative.