Many fans of the Seattle Kraken are eager to learn about their new NHL coach, Lane Lambert, but few may realize that Lambert had a lengthy playing career as a right-handed center. Before seeing him behind the bench in the coming season, let’s explore Lambert’s journey as a player.
Born in 1964 in Melfort, Saskatchewan, Canada, Lambert began his junior hockey career in 1980 with the Swift Current Broncos of the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League, where he scored an impressive 97 points in 55 games. Following this standout season, he moved to the Western Hockey League, playing with the Saskatoon Blades. Over two seasons there, he accumulated 237 points in 136 games, while also racking up 237 penalty minutes due to his aggressive playing style.
In the 1983 NHL Draft, the Detroit Red Wings picked Lambert in the second round as the 25th overall selection. He was drafted alongside future Hall of Famers like Pat LaFontaine, Cam Neely, and Steve Yzerman. That same year, Bruce Cassidy, now head coach of the Vegas Golden Knights, was also drafted.
Lambert made his NHL debut with the Red Wings in the fall of 1983, spending two full seasons and part of a third with the team. During this time, he earned 65 points from 36 goals and 29 assists, while accumulating 349 penalty minutes over 176 games, largely due to his frequent fights—37 in his first three NHL seasons alone.
In the 1986-87 season, Lambert briefly joined the New York Rangers, playing 18 games before being traded to the Quebec Nordiques, where he remained until 1989, his final NHL season. Afterward, Lambert continued his career overseas, primarily with Düsseldorf EG in Germany, and also in Switzerland with HC Ajoie and Langnau SC. Additionally, he played 58 games for Team Canada.
From 1996 to 2001, Lambert split his time between the Cleveland Lumberjacks and Houston Aeros in the International Hockey League (IHL). Notably, in 1999, he helped the Aeros win the Turner Cup, the IHL championship. Shortly after retiring as a player, Lambert transitioned into coaching in 2002, starting as an assistant coach with the WHL’s Moose Jaw Warriors.
Though his playing days are behind him, Lambert brings plenty of energy and experience as a coach. As the Kraken look to rebound from last season, fans are eager to see how Lambert’s leadership and competitive spirit will influence the team.
Fan Take: This news is significant for hockey enthusiasts because it highlights the journey of a seasoned player turned coach, whose deep understanding of the game could elevate the Seattle Kraken’s performance. Lambert’s blend of grit and knowledge promises to bring renewed energy and strategy, potentially impacting not just the team but also the broader NHL landscape.
