Marshawn Lynch, Macklemore join Kraken ownership group

Retired NFL running back Marshawn Lynch and Seattle-born rapper Macklemore joined the Kraken's ownership group as investors, the team announced Monday.

Lynch is one of the most beloved players in Seattle Seahawks history. He played seven seasons in the Pacific Northwest, highlighted by winning Super Bowl XLVIII.

"On God, I've been a part of a lot of things," Lynch said. "But this is something I never would have imagined. As a young hyena, I always dreamed of playing on a professional team but owning one is something special.

"As I look back on some of my accomplishments - I retired before I was 30 and now being an owner of a professional club at the age of 35 - I'm gonna continue to count my blessings. Being a part of the Seattle Kraken is something big for me."

Part of Lynch's involvement with the Kraken will include his participation in the club's "Hockey is for Everyone" campaign.

The NHL awarded Seattle an expansion franchise in 2018, and the Kraken debuted as the league's 32nd team this season.