Seattle is not far from playoff contention, but the goal is to become a perennial playoff team rather than a fringe competitor, with a focus on sustained excellence under new leadership.

If underperformance continues, more adjustments may be needed, including possible coaching changes, as Leiweke notes the team has had three head coaches in five seasons and something is out of alignment.

The Kraken entered Thursday at 32-34-11 and have lost 10 of their last 11 games, tied for the fourth-fewest points in the NHL at 75, signaling a near-elimination scenario for the 2026 playoffs.

Seattle’s 2022-23 playoff run to the second round, ending in a loss to Dallas, is cited as a benchmark for future competitiveness that Leiweke believes can be rekindled with the right changes.

The organization previously earned a playoff berth and second-round appearance in 2022-23, signaling potential that Leiweke thinks can be revived.

Ron Francis will step down as president of hockey operations at season’s end, in a mutual decision described as fatigue with his front-office role.

Leiweke suggests fatigue in the front-office role contributed to Francis’s departure, with the exit planned for the end of the season.

With a 32-34-11 record and 75 points, tied for the fourth-fewest in the league, Seattle faces a concerning slide toward potential playoff elimination.

Co-owner Tod Leiweke pledges that the Kraken will fix ongoing struggles as the likelihood of missing the 2026 playoffs grows, underscoring a commitment to improvements.

Leiweke expresses confidence the team will address its current issues and fix what isn’t working, emphasizing a steadfast commitment to progress.

Coachella Valley Firebirds, the Kraken’s top minor-league affiliate, have clinched a playoff spot, underscoring the strength of Seattle’s farm system.

Seattle has over $29 million in projected cap space this summer, with plans for GM Jason Botterill to lead an aggressive offseason aimed at attracting talent and rebuilding the roster.