The Seattle Kraken have announced Lane Lambert as the third head coach in franchise history, completing an extensive head coaching search.

Lambert has previously worked as the head coach of the New York Islanders before joining the Toronto Maple Leafs staff as an associate coach for the 2024-25 season. 

This is the first hiring of Jason Boterill's tenure as the Kraken's general manager, after the organization elected to fire Dan Bylsma after just one season. 

“After conducting an extensive search, we’re thrilled to announce Lane as our new head coach,” said Botterill in a press release from the Kraken. “We cast a wide net for suitable candidates. What impressed us throughout the interview process was Lane’s strategy and vision for this team. He was an integral part of the Capitals winning the Cup and the Islanders advancing to two straight Eastern Conference finals. We have full confidence in Lane to lead this team behind the bench.”

Lambert has worked extensively as a defensive coach, both working as an assistant and during his time as the Islanders' head coach.

"I'm so excited to become the head coach of the Seattle Kraken," said Lambert. "When it came time to writing a new chapter, I couldn't think of a better fit. 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 Samantha Holloway, Ron Francis and Jason Botterill for this opportunity. I can't wait to get started.”

In addition to the Islanders and the Maple Leafs, the 60-year-old has worked with the Washington Capitals and the Nashville Predators. He'll reunite with players Chandler Stephenson, Andre Burakovsky and Philipp Grubauer as members of the 2018 Stanley Cup champion Capitals. He'll also be reunited with captain Jordan Eberle, as the pair spent their time together with the Islanders. 

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