Seattle to remain tight-lipped on team name

At first it was supposed to happen during the All-Star break back in January. Then sometime before March 31st. Now, it appears the releasing of the name of the NHL's newest expansion team has been delayed once again. 

According to Sports Business Journal's Mark J. Burns, Seattle, which will play in the Pacific Division, "will not unveil the team’s new name this month because of sensitivities related to the coronavirus pandemic." 

There have been a few rumoured front-runners thrown around, including Seattle Kraken and the Seattle Sockeyes. However, that all appears to be little more than speculation at this point. No new date for the release of the name has been given. 

The NHL, of course, put its season on hold March 12th due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The World Health Organization had advised against large gatherings such as sporting events and even holding the games without spectators and having players continue to travel would put them, team staff and broadcast crews at increased risk on contracting the virus. 

Once it officially enters the league in the 2021-22 season, Seattle will be the NHL's 32nd team. Home games will be played at the renovated KeyArena (now called the New Arena at Seattle Center).