In a humorous twist during a promotional video shoot, Seattle Kraken forward John Hayden found himself in a precarious situation with a brown bear while fly-fishing in Alaska's Katmai National Park. Accompanied by the team's mascot, Buoy, the duo was interrupted as a bear charged toward them, seemingly intrigued by the mascot’s vibrant appearance. Fortunately, the bear turned away before any contact was made, allowing Hayden and the crew to safely return to shore unharmed. Kraken's marketing director, Melissa O'Brochta, noted that the unexpected encounter underlined the reality of filming in bear territory and emphasized their cautious approach when organizing such events.

This incident, which occurred during an annual trip promoting youth hockey, highlights the adventurous spirit and unexpected moments that come with the territory of outdoor promotional work. Hayden humorously remarked about the bear's interest in Buoy, adding a light-hearted touch to the otherwise precarious situation.

In an amusing encounter that blended wildlife with sports, Seattle Kraken's mascot, Buoy, faced a charging brown bear while promoting youth hockey in Alaska. This event unfolded during a fishing trip in Katmai National Park, where Kraken forward John Hayden and Buoy were filming to boost hockey's profile among the younger generation. Despite the bear's approach, no injuries were reported, and the mascot's vibrant appearance seemed to pique the bear's interest. The experience underscores the importance of respecting wildlife's territory, especially in regions like Katmai, known for its robust bear population.

As part of the event, organizers had arranged for safety through guides to mitigate risks associated with wildlife interactions. Kraken's marketing director remarked on the familiarity of the bears with humans, noting that they frequently visit the area to feast on salmon upstream. The video of this encounter serves as a reminder of the playful unpredictability of nature, even in a carefully orchestrated promotional event.

During a promotional video shoot in Alaska, Seattle Kraken forward John Hayden experienced a startling encounter with a brown bear. Filming in Katmai National Park, alongside the team's mascot Buoy, they were knee-deep in a river when the bear charged towards them. Fortunately, the bear veered away just in time, allowing Hayden, Buoy, and the crew to return to shore safely. This unexpected incident highlights the wildlife in the area, known for its annual 'Fat Bear Week' and salmon-feasting bears. Kraken's director noted the bear's familiarity with humans, pointing out that they often aren't scared by their presence.

As part of a youth hockey promotion, the trip brought the Kraken's mascot and players to Alaska, despite the absence of an NHL team in the state. Hayden humorously blamed Buoy for attracting the bear's attention due to its distinctive appearance. The crew had taken necessary safety measures, hiring guides to navigate the bear-populated area, demonstrating the team's commitment to both fun and safety during their promotion.

The Seattle Kraken made a significant move by re-signing defenseman Cale Fleury to a two-year, one-way contract worth $890,000 per year. This move is part of the Kraken's strategy to retain key players from their AHL affiliate, the Coachella Valley Firebirds, ahead of the free agency period.

Fleury has established himself as a strong contributor, having recorded 29 points in 39 games during the last AHL season and a plus-minus of +10. His re-signing joins forwards John Hayden and Ben Meyers, who were also retained earlier this month, ensuring that the Kraken maintain a competitive edge in the upcoming season. With the free agency period approaching, the Kraken are focusing on solidifying their roster while only five players from their original nine free agents remain on the market.

In a thrilling encounter, the Seattle Kraken triumphed over the Buffalo Sabres 6-4, with Jamie Oleksiak netting the pivotal goal in the second period. Oleksiak's strike came shortly after Tage Thompson equalized for Buffalo, showcasing the intense back-and-forth action of the game. The scoring frenzy began early, with Jack Quinn giving the Sabres an initial lead before Seattle surged ahead with goals from John Hayden, Chandler Stephenson, and Matty Beniers.

Despite Buffalo's attempts to rally through Jason Zucker and Thompson's goals, the Kraken regained control with third-period goals from Adam Larsson and Jared McCann, whose performance included a goal and two assists. The victory marked Seattle's dominance over Buffalo, improving their all-time record against the Sabres to 7-1, with their only loss occurring earlier this year.