Lane Lambert has been named the new head coach of the Seattle Kraken, marking the first coaching hire by the team’s new general manager, Jason Botterill. This is Lambert’s second opportunity to lead an NHL team after his time with the New York Islanders from 2022-23 to mid-2023-24. Botterill expressed confidence in Lambert’s ability to guide the Kraken, highlighting his experience and vision for the team’s future.
Lambert’s Coaching Background
Lambert’s coaching journey includes a solid record with the Islanders, where he posted a combined 61-46-20 record. In 2022-23, he led the team to a 42-31-9 finish and made the playoffs, though they were eliminated in the first round by the Carolina Hurricanes. The following season saw a 19-15-11 record before Lambert was replaced by Patrick Roy. Lambert also spent the 2024-25 season as an associate coach for the Toronto Maple Leafs under Craig Berube.
Before coaching the Islanders, Lambert was an assistant coach with the Washington Capitals from 2014-15 to 2017-18, a period that included winning the Stanley Cup in 2018. His coaching resume also features assistant roles with the Nashville Predators and head coaching jobs in the AHL and WHL.
Lambert’s Vision for the Kraken
In his announcement, Lambert shared his excitement about joining the Kraken, calling Seattle an “incredible sports town” and praising the enthusiasm of its fans. He believes the team has a strong mix of young talent and veteran leadership, and he’s ready to help them reach the next level. Lambert’s focus is on building a team culture through strong communication and leadership.
Botterill explained that he chose Lambert because of his ability to build relationships and communicate effectively with players and staff. He wants the head coach to act like the “CEO of the locker room,” ensuring that everyone—from assistant coaches to skills and strength coaches—is working together to support the players.
Seattle Kraken’s Current Status
The Kraken finished seventh out of eight teams in the Pacific Division last season with a 35-41-6 record. They reached the second round of the 2023 playoffs but missed the playoffs in the following two seasons. Under former coach Dan Bylsma, the team struggled with scoring and defense, ranking low in goals-for, goals-against, power play, and penalty kill percentages.
Despite these challenges, the Kraken have promising players like Matty Beniers, Shane Wright, and Ryker Evans, alongside veterans Jared McCann, Brandon Montour, Vince Dunn, Chandler Stephenson, and Jaden Schwartz. Lambert’s task will be to help this group improve and compete at a higher level.
Lambert’s Playing Career
Before coaching, Lambert played 283 NHL games between 1983 and 1989. He was a right winger for the Detroit Red Wings, New York Rangers, and Quebec Nordiques, scoring 58 goals and making 66 assists in his career.
Lane Lambert’s hiring as Seattle Kraken’s new head coach signals a fresh start under GM Jason Botterill. With Lambert’s NHL coaching experience and focus on teamwork and communication, the Kraken hope to develop their young core and improve their standing in the Pacific Division. Lambert’s leadership and vision could be key in turning the team’s potential into success in the coming seasons.
