Yanni Gourde

Yanni Gourde: The Heart and Soul of the Seattle Kraken

Yanni Gourde, born on December 15, 1991, in Saint-Narcisse, Quebec, is one of the most hardworking and versatile forwards in the NHL today. Known for his relentless energy, tenacity, and leadership on the ice, Gourde has made a name for himself as a key player for the Seattle Kraken, the NHL's newest franchise. Prior to joining the Kraken, Gourde was a critical member of the Tampa Bay Lightning, helping them win back-to-back Stanley Cups in 2020 and 2021. His ability to perform in high-pressure situations, combined with his work ethic and passion for the game, has earned him the admiration of fans and teammates alike.

Collectors and fans treasure Yanni Gourde autographed Seattle Kraken jerseys and photos, celebrating his contributions to the Kraken’s early success and his role as one of the team’s leaders as they establish their identity in the NHL.

Early Life and Hockey Career

Rising from the Quebec Junior Leagues to the NHL

Yanni Gourde’s journey to the NHL was far from typical. Growing up in Quebec, Gourde developed his love for hockey at a young age and worked tirelessly to improve his skills. Despite his relatively small size (5'9", 175 pounds), Gourde’s speed, determination, and versatility made him a standout player in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League (QMJHL) with the Victoriaville Tigres. Over the course of his junior career, Gourde’s ability to create offense and play with grit caught the attention of scouts, but he went undrafted in the NHL Entry Draft, forcing him to take the long road to the NHL.

Undeterred, Gourde worked his way up through the ECHL and AHL, where his consistent play and leadership earned him a chance with the Tampa Bay Lightning. It was with the Lightning that Gourde would eventually establish himself as an impactful NHL player.

For collectors, Yanni Gourde autographed junior hockey or early career memorabilia is rare but represents the beginning of a career that would soon make him a two-time Stanley Cup champion and a key player in Seattle’s hockey history.

NHL Career and Success with the Tampa Bay Lightning

Becoming a Key Contributor in Tampa Bay

After signing with the Tampa Bay Lightning organization and spending time developing in the AHL, Yanni Gourde made his NHL debut in the 2015-16 season. Gourde’s tireless work ethic and two-way play soon earned him a permanent spot on the Lightning roster, and he quickly became known as one of the most versatile and dependable forwards on the team. Whether on the penalty kill, power play, or even-strength situations, Gourde contributed in all aspects of the game.

Gourde’s breakout season came in 2017-18 when he scored 25 goals and added 39 assists for 64 points, showing his ability to generate offense while playing with a relentless, aggressive style. His combination of grit, determination, and offensive skill made him a fan favorite in Tampa Bay and earned him respect across the league.

For fans and collectors, Yanni Gourde autographed photos from his time with the Tampa Bay Lightning are highly valued, commemorating his rise as a key player for the team and his impact on their success.

Winning Back-to-Back Stanley Cups with the Lightning

The highlight of Yanni Gourde’s career came during his time with the Tampa Bay Lightning, when he played a crucial role in the team’s back-to-back Stanley Cup championships in 2020 and 2021. Gourde’s ability to elevate his play in the postseason was invaluable, as he delivered key goals, timely defensive plays, and unmatched energy that helped propel the Lightning to hockey’s ultimate prize.

In the 2020 playoffs, Gourde’s clutch performances and gritty play helped the Lightning win their first Stanley Cup in 16 years, as they defeated the Dallas Stars in the finals. The following year, Gourde was once again a key contributor, scoring one of the most important goals of the 2021 playoffs: a shorthanded game-winner in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference Final against the New York Islanders, securing the Lightning’s spot in the Stanley Cup Final.

For collectors, Yanni Gourde autographed Stanley Cup-winning memorabilia, including jerseys and photos, is highly prized, celebrating his role in Tampa Bay’s championship success and his contributions to one of the most dominant teams in recent NHL history.

Joining the Seattle Kraken: A New Chapter

Becoming a Leader for the NHL’s Newest Franchise

In the 2021 NHL Expansion Draft, Yanni Gourde was selected by the Seattle Kraken, becoming one of the foundational players for the league’s newest franchise. His experience as a two-time Stanley Cup champion, combined with his leadership and relentless style of play, made Gourde the perfect choice to help guide the Kraken in their inaugural season.

Despite missing the first few games of the Kraken’s debut season due to offseason shoulder surgery, Gourde quickly made an impact upon returning to the lineup. His ability to lead by example on the ice, contribute in all areas of the game, and deliver in key moments helped establish him as one of the team’s leaders. His presence in the locker room and on the ice has been instrumental in helping the Kraken build their identity as a hardworking, tenacious team.

For fans and collectors, Yanni Gourde autographed Seattle Kraken jerseys from their inaugural season are especially prized, commemorating his role as a leader for the franchise and his contributions to the team’s early success.

Setting the Tone for the Kraken’s Future

Yanni Gourde’s leadership and experience have been vital in setting the tone for the Kraken’s future as they establish themselves in the NHL. His willingness to do whatever it takes to help the team win—whether it’s scoring goals, playing defense, or inspiring his teammates with his relentless energy—has earned him the respect of his teammates and the admiration of Seattle’s growing hockey fanbase.

As the Kraken continue to build their roster and develop their young players, Gourde’s presence will be key to their success. His championship experience and tireless work ethic make him an ideal mentor for younger players, and his contributions on the ice have helped Seattle compete in their early seasons.

For collectors, Yanni Gourde autographed Seattle Kraken photos capturing moments from the team’s early games and key performances are highly sought after, celebrating his role in the team’s development and his impact on the franchise’s history.

Collecting Yanni Gourde Autographed Memorabilia

For fans and collectors, Yanni Gourde autographed Seattle Kraken jerseys and photos are highly valued collectibles that celebrate his contributions to the NHL’s newest franchise and his status as one of the team’s leaders.

Seattle Kraken Collectibles

• Autographed Jerseys: Yanni Gourde signed Seattle Kraken jerseys are must-have items for any Kraken fan, symbolizing his role as one of the foundational players for the franchise. These jerseys are perfect for display, honoring Gourde’s leadership and his contributions to the Kraken’s inaugural season.
• Autographed Photos: Yanni Gourde autographed Seattle Kraken photos are particularly popular among collectors, capturing iconic moments from the team’s first games and Gourde’s impact on the ice. These photos celebrate his role as one of the team’s top players and his contributions to building the Kraken’s future.
• Autographed Helmets and Pucks: While not the primary focus here, Yanni Gourde autographed Seattle Kraken helmets and pucks are also popular collectibles, representing his leadership and importance to the franchise in its early stages.

Yanni Gourde’s journey from an undrafted player in the minor leagues to a two-time Stanley Cup champion and a leader for the Seattle Kraken is a testament to his talent, work ethic, and determination. His time with the Tampa Bay Lightning saw him help lead the team to back-to-back championships, while his role with the Kraken has established him as a key figure in the franchise’s development. Gourde’s contributions to both teams, combined with his passion for the game, continue to inspire fans and players alike.

For fans and collectors, Yanni Gourde autographed Seattle Kraken jerseys and photos offer a tangible connection to one of the most hardworking and versatile players in the NHL. These items not only celebrate Gourde’s remarkable achievements but also serve as lasting tributes to a player who helped shape the Kraken’s identity and build their legacy in the NHL. Whether you are a die-hard Kraken fan, a collector of NHL memorabilia, or someone inspired by Gourde’s journey, these autographed items provide a meaningful way to honor his legacy.