SEATTLE — The Seattle Kraken took a significant step toward increased visibility in the Pacific Northwest on Thursday, as the team and KING 5 announced a broadcast partnership that will televise every game that isn't on a national network.
Kraken CEO Tod Leiweke spoke exclusively with KING 5's Paul Silvi from inside the Kraken locker room and explained why the added visibility in transitioning from ROOT Sports to KING accomplishes one of the franchise's most important goals.
"As we evolve, one of our key objectives is we have this incredible territory, we have an incredible audience and support, how do we push to another level?" Leiweke said. "We're going to do it through this partnership. We're going to do it by making all the games available on free, over-the-air television."
Beginning in September, fans will be able to watch preseason, regular season and select postseason Kraken games for free on KONG. Some will also be simulcast on KING 5.
Leiweke also expressed profound appreciation for ROOT Sports and the Seattle Mariners, which are the primary owners of the Pacific Northwest regional sports network. "They have treated us in such a gracious way," Leiweke said of ROOT.
Many fans in western Washington were dismayed to learn that ROOT Sports was added to a premium tier of Xfinity last October. The move to the new package means an $18.50 increase on top of the regular cost of cable.
ROOT Sports is only available on Xfinity, DIRECTV Stream and Fubo, whereas KING 5 and KONG are available more widely with local television providers.
The Kraken just wrapped up its third season since being named the National Hockey League's (NHL) 32nd franchise.
Watch the full interview with Leiweke at the link below.