The Seattle Kraken have landed their guy, hiring Lane Lambert as the team’s third head coach in franchise history.
Lambert brings some serious playoff experience to Seattle, having helped guide the Washington Capitals to a Stanley Cup victory and leading the New York Islanders to back-to-back Eastern Conference finals appearances.
“After conducting an extensive search, we’re thrilled to announce Lane as our new head coach,” said Kraken GM Jason Botterill. “What impressed us throughout the interview process was Lane’s strategy and vision for this team.”
The move wasn’t exactly a shock to hockey insiders. Earlier this week, Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman had pegged Lambert as the frontrunner for the job.
Lambert steps in for Dan Bylsma, who lasted just one season behind the bench. Bylsma had replaced Dave Hakstol, the team’s original head coach who led the Kraken through their first three years in the NHL.
The Kraken took their time with this hire, casting what Botterill called “a wide net” for candidates. But Lambert’s championship pedigree and proven track record of playoff success made him stand out from the pack.
“We have full confidence in Lane to lead this team behind the bench,” Botterill said.
For Seattle fans, the hire represents a fresh start with a coach who knows what it takes to win at the highest level. Now the question is: Can Lambert help the young Kraken franchise take the next step in their evolution?
