Lane Lambert arrives in Seattle with a straight-shooter, team-first ethos that prioritizes collective growth over finger-pointing.

His Islanders tenure showcased a disciplined, difficult-to-play-for squad, built on communication and players feeling valued; Trotz's influence helped shape that blueprint.

Seattle added Mason Marchment and retained a core of 20-goal scorers as Lambert negotiates a lean blue line and a developing goalie in Joey Daccord, aiming to lift the Kraken in a crowded Pacific.

Preseason opens against Anaheim as Lambert tests whether his foundation translates into a durable identity and a productive partnership with his staff and players.

Six NHL breakout candidates for 2025-26 could reshape fantasy rosters: Connor Bedard should push toward an 85–90 point pace with expanded minutes and rising shooting efficiency in Chicago. Quinton Byfield is poised to anchor the Kings’ top six, taking on tougher minutes and PP time en route to a 30-goal, 45-assist season. Matty Beniers enters classic two-way breakout territory, while Zach Benson could double his production with better linemates in Buffalo. Cole Perfetti and Logan Stankoven also carry clear routes to 70-plus point seasons with more ice time and power-play exposure. Dylan Guenther and Matthew Knies serve as reminders that big roles are often the gateway to fantasy relevance, even if their teams are rebuilding.

Lane Lambert has taken the reins as head coach of the Seattle Kraken, aiming to elevate the franchise to playoff contention. Lambert, who led the Toronto Maple Leafs to a successful season as associate head coach, expressed confidence in his ability to improve the Kraken's performance after a disappointing previous season.

Lambert's strategy focuses on establishing a structured system and enhancing special teams, which ranked poorly last season. He inherits a roster featuring notable veterans like Jaden Schwartz and Jared McCann, alongside promising young talents such as Matty Beniers. With a clear vision and a strong focus on development, Lambert is determined to transform the Kraken's fortunes in the upcoming season.

The Seattle Kraken have officially announced the hiring of Lane Lambert as their new head coach, marking a significant move for the franchise. Lambert, who previously coached the New York Islanders, replaces Dan Bylsma, who was let go after just one season. Lambert brings experience from his time as an NHL forward and most recently served as an associate coach with the Toronto Maple Leafs.

This decision follows a front office shakeup, with Ron Francis promoted to president of hockey operations. Lambert expressed enthusiasm about his new role, emphasizing the team's potential with a combination of talented young players and strong veteran leadership. Despite the Kraken finishing seventh in the Pacific Division last season, Lambert sees an opportunity to advance the team's trajectory with an impressive draft stock that includes ten picks across the first two rounds over the next three years.

The Seattle Kraken have appointed Lane Lambert as their new head coach, following the dismissal of Dan Bylsma. Previously the associate coach for the Toronto Maple Leafs, Lambert brings experience from his previous role as head coach of the New York Islanders, where he led the team to consecutive Eastern Conference Finals appearances.

Lambert expressed enthusiasm about joining the Kraken, highlighting the potential of their young players and the leadership within the veteran core. His hiring marks a significant step as the Kraken prepare for their fifth NHL season, aiming to improve on last year's playoff miss.