A Milestone Season and a New Announcer
The Kraken’s 2021‑22 campaign will be remembered not only for the excitement it generated among fans but also for the rare achievement of five players who suited up for every one of the 82 regular‑season games. Goalie Philipp Grubauer, defenseman Adam Larsson, forward Vince Dunn, center Jared McCann and veteran winger Jordan Eberle each logged the full slate, underscoring their durability and importance to the club’s identity.
Adding to the narrative, the organization announced the hiring of Josh Hunter as the new public address announcer for the upcoming December 17th contest in Columbus. Hunter, who previously filled in for the departing Chet Buchanan during the 2021‑22 season, brings a fresh yet familiar presence to the booth. His appointment comes as the team prepares to face the Columbus Blue Jackets, a matchup that promises to blend competitive intensity with a nod to the franchise’s evolving story.
Chet Buchanan’s Journey from Seattle to Las Vegas
Chet Buchanan, whose voice has become synonymous with Kraken games, relocated to Las Vegas in February 2022 after a career that spanned NASCAR, the WNBA’s Las Vegas Aces and decades of community outreach, including annual Christmas toy drives for local charities. Though he now calls the Silver State home, Buchanan continues to broadcast Kraken games from his residence in Puget Sound, a testament to his enduring connection with the team and its fans.
Buchanan’s early days behind the microphone were marked by a learning curve; the first ten games of his tenure revealed growing pains that gave way to confidence and widespread admiration. Fans began mimicking his signature goal calls, a grassroots tribute that highlighted his impact on the club’s culture and the deep bond between announcer and audience.
The upcoming showdown against the Blue Jackets will feature Josh Hunter at the helm of the public address system, temporarily filling the role that Buchanan once owned. While Hunter steps into the spotlight, the Kraken organization remains focused on building on a season that combined competitive grit with community engagement, looking ahead to the next chapter of its evolving identity.