Seattle, WA - The Seattle Kraken have officially named Lane Lambert as the team’s new head coach, marking a new chapter for the franchise. Lambert brings with him a championship pedigree and a strong reputation as a player developer. He was part of the Washington Capitals' Stanley Cup-winning coaching staff in 2018.
“Lane is a winner,” said Kraken General Manager Jason Botterill. “His experience and leadership will be invaluable as we continue to build our culture and develop talent.”
Lambert, clearly energized by the opportunity, expressed deep gratitude for the role.
“Being a coach in the National Hockey League is a privilege at any level, and being a head coach is an honor,” Lambert said at his introductory press conference. “There are only 32 of these positions, and I’m greatly honored to take this one."- Lane Lambert - Monday, June 9, 2025 - Kraken Press Conference - Seattle, WA
Lambert shared that within minutes of meeting the Kraken’s leadership team—including Samantha Holloway, Jason Botterill, and Ron Francis—he felt an immediate connection. “I had a sense of family right away,” he said, noting the welcoming atmosphere and alignment across the organization.
That family dynamic extends to his personal life as well. Lambert emphasized how important the decision was for his wife Annie and their four children. “Joining this team felt like joining a family,” he said.
Reflecting on the energy at Climate Pledge Arena, Lambert said, “The place was rocking—almost vibrating. Seattle is a tremendous sports town, and I’m excited to be here and be a part of it.”
Looking ahead to the roster, Lambert praised the Kraken’s balance of youth and experience. “We have a well-rounded team,” he said. “Using young players at the right time can really help us win.” Botterill echoed that sentiment, adding, “We need young players that are not just developed, but NHL-ready.”
Lambert confirmed that assistant coach Jessica Campbell will return to the staff, calling her “integral in the development of some of our young players.”
More Details Emerge Of The PWHL's Eighth Franchise During Seattle Press Conference
Seattle, WA - The Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) has officially added Seattle as its eighth franchise, unveiled during a press event at Climate Pledge Arena on Wednesday morning. This makes the arena the first in the U.S. to host two professional women’s sports teams, alongside the Seattle Storm.
The incoming coach also acknowledged the growing synergy between NHL teams and the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL). He noted that only three NHL teams will share their practice facilities with PWHL teams this fall—Seattle being one of them. Having recently worked in Toronto, where he shared space with a PWHL squad, Lambert said the experience fostered mutual growth. Botterill added that PWHL Seattle GM Meghan Turner has already been in contact with Ron Francis to coordinate plans.
As Lambert shifts his focus to summer training and the upcoming draft, he emphasized that player development and a strong commitment to the Kraken’s culture and community will be top priorities heading into training camp.
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New Kraken HC Shakes Things Up As Lowry, Briere Fired
<b>Seattle, WA</b> - The <b>Seattle Kraken</b> announced more changes to their coaching staff on Friday with the departure of assistant coach <b>Dave Lowry</b> and goaltending coach <b>Steve Briere</b>. According to a press statement from Seattle Kraken Executive VP and General Manager <b>Jason Botterill</b>, the decision was made in part by the new head coach, <a href="https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/seattle-kraken/VEw40Y4owvxLsNUkBagZ">Lane Lambert</a>.
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*Cover Photo & Thumbnail by Laura Beth Harrington | Come As You Are Hockey