Who is Lane Lambert, the new Seattle Kraken head coach leading the team's future?
Image credit: (Karl B DeBlaker / AP)
Seattle hockey fans, buckle up, the Kraken are officially under new leadership. NHL insider Elliotte Friedman reports that the Kraken have hired Lane Lambert as their next head coach, marking a decisive shift for the young franchise after a tough season.
Lambert, who most recently worked with the Toronto Maple Leafs and previously led the New York Islanders, comes with a reputation for grit, defensive structure, and playoff know-how. General manager Jason Botterill made it clear: this hire wasn't just about filling a spot, it's about reshaping the future.
Who is Lane Lambert? A coach with deep NHL roots
A longtime hockey mind, Lambert played over 250 NHL games in his career before transitioning into coaching. His biggest coaching claim to fame came in 2018 as an assistant on the Washington Capitals' Stanley Cup-winning squad, followed by a two-year run as the head coach of the New York Islanders, where he guided them to consecutive Eastern Conference Finals appearances.
Lambert is known for his no-nonsense approach, smart defensive systems, and ability to connect with veteran players, a resume the Kraken clearly value as they look to stabilize and grow.
Why the Kraken made this coaching change right now
The 2024–25 season didn't go the way Seattle hoped. After missing the playoffs and parting ways with former coach Dan Bylsma, the Kraken needed someone who could not only steady the ship but bring fresh ideas to the table.
In a statement, Botterill praised Lambert's 'strategy and vision,' saying the team was impressed by his blueprint for maximizing Seattle's current roster and building toward long-term success.
It's not just about making the playoffs next season; it's about creating a system players can thrive in for years.
With the NHL draft and free agency looming, Lambert and Botterill will need to move quickly to align on roster priorities. Will they target more veteran leadership? Add scoring punch? Shore up the defense?
Seattle has shown it can surprise the league before and with Lambert now behind the bench, Kraken fans can dare to dream that the next chapter will be the most exciting one yet.
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