Breaking: Seattle Kraken Appoints Lane Lambert as New Head Coach After Extensive Search
In a major coaching shuffle, the Seattle Kraken have named Lane Lambert as their new head coach, ending a long search for the perfect bench boss to replace Dan Bylsma. General Manager Jason Botterill hailed Lambert’s visionary strategies and track record, including his integral role in the Washington Capitals’ Stanley Cup win and the New York Islanders’ consecutive Eastern Conference Finals appearances. Lambert, 60, brings extensive experience to the Kraken, who are looking to turn around their recent struggles after an impressive debut season. He takes over a team that has posted underwhelming point totals in the past two seasons, particularly suffering on defense. With this hire, only two coaching vacancies remain in the NHL — Pittsburgh and Boston.
The Kraken Find their Man: Lane Lambert Named New Head Coach
The Seattle Kraken have ended their search for a new head coach, announcing Lane Lambert as the third bench boss in franchise history. General Manager Jason Botterill expressed his delight at the appointment:
“After an extensive search, we’re thrilled to announce Lane as our new head coach. His strategy and vision for this team impressed us throughout the interview process. He’s been an integral part of winning teams, and we have full confidence in his abilities to lead the Kraken.”
A Familiar Face Steps Up
Lambert’s hiring comes as little surprise after Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet reported him as the frontrunner earlier this week. The 60-year-old will take over from Dan Bylsma, who was let go after just one year.
A Proven Track Record
This is Lambert’s second stint as a head coach. He spent 127 games in charge of the Islanders, posting a 61-46-20 record and leading them to the playoffs in 2022-23. His NHL resume also includes four years with the Washington Capitals, including their Stanley Cup-winning season in 2018. Lambert followed Barry Trotz to the Islanders and served as associate coach during their two consecutive Eastern Conference Final appearances.
The Task Ahead: Rekindling the Kraken’s Promise
Lambert faces a significant challenge in turning around a Kraken side that impressed in its debut season (100 points) but has since struggled, with 81 and 76 points in the last two years. Key areas needing attention include the team’s defensive play and possession game, which have declined since their impressive sophomore season.
Did you know?
Pro Tip: A strong possession game can often correlate with improved defensive play. Keep an eye on how Lambert’s system evolves during training camp and the preseason.
What’s Next for the NHL Coaching Carousel?
With Lambert’s hiring, just two head coach vacancies remain in the NHL: Pittsburgh and Boston. Both teams are expected to make appointments soon, with the Penguins reportedly aiming to finalize their hire before the end of the month.
FAQs
- Who was the previous Kraken head coach?
- Dan Bylsma
- How many games did Lane Lambert coach the Islanders for?
- 127 games
- What are the remaining NHL head coach vacancies?
- Pittsburgh and Boston
Join the Conversation
What do you think about Lane Lambert as the new head coach of the Seattle Kraken? Share your thoughts in the comments below or on social media. And stay tuned to 247sports.new for all the latest NHL news and analysis.
**🌊 Explore More Kraken News & Analysis 🌊**