As Seattle embarks on yet another chapter in its hockey history with the hiring of Lane Lambert as head coach, the atmosphere surrounding the Kraken is filled with both hope and anticipation. Lambert, introduced at the team’s practice facility, carries a unique burden that blends the weight of history with the exhilaration of new potential. He’s officially the third head coach to lead the Kraken, an organization that entered the NHL with dreams of glory but has struggled to carve out a consistent identity in the fiercely competitive league.
Lambert’s background as a seasoned coach, with a most recent stint as an associate head coach for the Toronto Maple Leafs, positions him intriguingly for this role. Having been part of a team that secured 52 wins, captured the Atlantic Division, and made it into the semifinals, he’s not a stranger to success. However, playoff elimination in a crushing Game 7 against the Florida Panthers underscores the unpredictable nature of the postseason—a reality that awaits him in Seattle.
No Pressure, Just Expectations
One of the more striking comments from Lambert during his introduction was his assertion that he feels “no pressure” to transform the Kraken into a playoff contender. Instead, he places heavy expectations on himself and his ability to mold this team into a competitive force. At 60, Lambert exhibits a calm yet determined demeanor, recognizing that success is not simply about immediate results but rather a process—an understanding that seems almost Zen-like in today’s instant gratification culture.
It’s this nonchalant attitude toward external pressure that will likely serve him well in his quest for playoff success. Lambert’s philosophy appears to be a blend of patience and progression—a mindset that prioritizes daily improvements over overnight transformations. He emphasizes a structured approach, insisting that the lack of quick success should not deter him or the team from pursuing their goals. It’s a refreshing stance that highlights the importance of nurturing growth through strategic planning and continuous learning.
Addressing the Kraken’s Struggles
For Lambert, the task at hand is daunting. The Kraken finished the previous season with a disappointing record of 35-41-6, which left them significantly out of playoff contention. One critical factors in this failure lies in their statistical rankings. The team was abysmal in power play efficiency, ranked 23rd, and similarly disappointing in faceoff percentages and average shots on goal. Furthermore, Seattle’s penalty kill ranked at a lowly 21st. These troubling metrics illustrate the areas that will need radical improvements if the team is to reverse its fortunes.
Lambert’s mantra seems to be one of holistic growth—addressing every facet of the game. He is adamant that while special teams will receive special attention, he understands the necessity for foundational improvements across the board. Lambert’s previous experience in helping teams improve their defensive play, especially highlighted during his tenure in Toronto, indicates his capability to elevate the Kraken in critical areas.
Veteran Leadership Meets Youthful Talent
One of the intriguing aspects of Lambert’s new roster is the powerful mix of seasoned veterans and budding talents. With players like Jaden Schwartz, Jared McCann, and Eeli Tolvanen offering experience on the ice, there’s a strong backbone that can be built upon. Schwartz’s 26 goals and McCann’s impressive season, leading the team with 61 points, provide a solid foundation for Lambert to cultivate. Having this combination of wisdom and youthful exuberance in skaters like Matty Beniers—who shone as the 2023 Rookie of the Year—positions the Kraken in a unique state of readiness for change.
Lambert has astutely recognized this balance within his squad. His optimism shines through when he speaks about the “great talent” present within the team’s ranks. This balance will be key in establishing a culture of resilience and competitiveness, not merely an attempt to scrape into the playoffs but to become a formidable opponent in the league.
Building a Promising Future
In a landscape where teams are evaluated not just for their wins but their overall trajectory, Lambert’s focused approach could be the linchpin that the Kraken desperately need to find success and stability. While some may feel anxious about the pressure of playoff expectations, Lambert is choosing to embrace the challenge with an evolving mindset. With an eye toward formulating a comprehensive system that integrates offensive firepower and defensive discipline, he appears poised to steer this franchise toward a bright future.
As the Kraken prepare for this critical season ahead, all eyes will be on how Lambert implements his vision and harnesses the potent mixture of experience and youth. The journey may be fraught with challenges, but if his philosophy of steady improvement holds true, the promise of a successful Kraken, once deemed elusive, may finally be within reach.