How the NHL expansion draft will work for the Seattle Kraken: Schedule, format, rules, players available

The NHL is expanding to 32 teams beginning with the 2021-22 season, as the Seattle Kraken will join the Pacific Division. This sets up a natural regional rivalry with the Vancouver Canucks and brings the sport back to the city whose Metropolitans were the first team awarded the Stanley Cup in 1917.

While the hirings on the management and coaching side continue -- and construction on Climate Pledge Arena continues, with a mid-October opening date still the goal -- the roster of players remains to be determined as well. The next step in that process is the expansion draft.

If you aren't entirely caught up, we've got you covered, with intel on how the franchise came to be, broadcast details on…