The Seattle Kraken have appointed Lane Lambert as their new head coach, marking an important milestone in the franchise’s development. This announcement comes after a thorough search, with General Manager Jason Botterill expressing excitement about Lambert’s vision and strategic approach for the team. In his statement, Botterill highlighted Lambert’s successful track record, including his contributions to the Washington Capitals’ Stanley Cup victory and the New York Islanders’ consecutive appearances in the Eastern Conference Finals.
Lambert steps in as the third head coach in Kraken history, taking over from Dan Bylsma, who parted ways with the team after just one season. Prior to Bylsma, Dave Hakstol led the franchise for its initial three seasons. The decision to hire Lambert aligns with reports that surfaced earlier, indicating that he was the leading candidate for the job.
At 60 years old, Lambert brings significant coaching experience to Seattle. He previously helmed the Islanders for 127 games, achieving a record of 61-46-20 and guiding the team to the playoffs in the 2022-23 season, although they were eliminated in the first round. His coaching journey includes a pivotal role as an assistant with the Capitals during their championship run in 2018 and as an associate coach with the Islanders under Barry Trotz.
The appointment of Lambert signifies a hopeful new chapter for the Kraken as they look to enhance their competitiveness in the NHL. His prior success indicates that he possesses the potential to foster growth and lead the team to greater achievements in the upcoming seasons. As the Kraken continue to build their identity, Lambert’s experience may prove invaluable in guiding the players and cultivating a winning culture. More updates are expected as the Kraken prepare for the challenges ahead.