5/30/2025
(SEATTLE, WASH)
The Seattle Kraken announced the hiring of Lane Lambert as the third head coach in team history on Thursday.
The hiring fills the void left after Dan Byslma was fired after one season finishing (35-41-6). Lambert embarks on his second NHL Head Coaching stint after coaching the New York Islanders for two seasons, including a playoff appearance in 2023.
Lambert said in a statement, “I’m so excited to become the head coach of the Seattle Kraken, Seattle is an incredible sports town, and I’ve been impressed by the energy of the fans every time I’ve been there as a visiting coach. This team has a talented group of young players poised to take the next step and a core group of veterans with great leadership qualities. I’d like to thank (team owner) Samantha Holloway, (Kraken President of Hockey Operations) Ron Francis and (general manager) Jason Botterill for this opportunity. I can’t wait to get started.”
Prior to being in Seattle, Lambert served as the associate coach on Craig Berube’s staff with the Toronto Maple Leafs. Toronto advanced to the 2nd round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs, pushing future Eastern Conference Champion Florida Panthers to seven games. Lambert comes from the Barry Trotz coaching tree, having followed Trotz through the latter stages of his coaching career. Part of that journey includes winning the Stanley Cup with the Washington Captials in 2018. Lambert also served with Trotz as an associate coach with the Islanders from 2018-2022, including two trips to the Conference Finals.
Lambert also has NHL playing experience. Drafted in 1983 by the Detroit Red Wings, Lambert played 283 games for the Red Wings, New York Rangers, and Quebec Nordiques. Lambert’s hockey journey reaches its next chapter in the Emerald City. Newly announced general manager Jason Botterill was thrilled with the hiring saying in a statement, “we’re thrilled to announce Lane as our new head coach.” Botterill was impressed by Lambert “strategy and vision” for the Kraken during the interview process.
An introductory press conference for Lambert is scheduled for Monday morning. ESN will be on hand for coverage as the Kraken introduce their new head coach.
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