THIS IS THE BEST WE COULD HOPE FOR: Former  New York Islanders Head Coach Lane Lambert who is currently the head coach of the Seattle Kraken in the Has Sends a Stunning message to the current Head Coach Patrick Roy Concerning…

Former  New York Islanders Head Coach Lane Lambert who is currently the head coach of the Seattle Kraken in the Has Sends a Stunning message to the current Head Coach Patrick Roy Concerning…

Former New York Islanders head coach Lane Lambert, now leading the Seattle Kraken, has surprised the hockey world with a blunt and unexpected message aimed at his successor on Long Island, Hall of Famer Patrick Roy.

In a candid moment during an offseason media availability in Seattle, Lambert, who spent nearly two seasons behind the Islanders bench, addressed Roy’s tenure with striking honesty.

> “Patrick’s a competitor—no doubt about that,” Lambert began. “But coaching in New York, under the spotlight, with the kind of structure that franchise demands… it’s not just about fire and emotion. It’s about discipline, habits, and respecting what came before you.”

The comment—unprompted—quickly set off speculation across the hockey community, with many wondering if Lambert’s message was rooted in lingering tension, professional pride, or genuine concern.

A Tale of Two Coaches

Lambert, 60, was named head coach of the Islanders in 2022 after serving as an assistant under Barry Trotz. Known for his calm demeanor and defense-first philosophy, Lambert led the Isles to a playoff berth in his first season. But in Year 2, inconsistencies and a dip in special teams performance ultimately cost him his job midseason.

Enter Patrick Roy.

The fiery former goaltender and Stanley Cup-winning coach made his return to the NHL behind the Islanders’ bench, bringing passion, emotion, and a legacy of intensity.

The contrast between the two couldn’t be more dramatic: Lambert, composed and meticulous; Roy, passionate and animated.

And according to Lambert, that difference may be the very challenge Roy faces now.

> “Emotion gets you through the tunnel,” Lambert said. “But systems get you through the playoffs.”

No Hard Feelings—But Not Holding Back

When asked if his comments came from a place of frustration over how his departure was handled, Lambert dismissed the idea.

> “Listen, I respect Lou [Lamoriello] and everything that franchise gave me,” he said. “That’s not what this is about. This is about legacy. That team means something to me. I don’t want to see all the work those players put in thrown away chasing fire over structure.”

He continued, “If Pat’s listening—and I hope he is—keep it sharp. Keep it tight. New York doesn’t tolerate drift.”

While Lambert’s message wasn’t openly confrontational, it was clear he wasn’t pulling any punches either. Some insiders say this might be the most open a coach has been about a successor in recent memory.

A Coach’s Respect and a Veiled Warning

Despite the sharp edge, Lambert made sure to acknowledge Roy’s resume and what he’s accomplished—both as a player and a coach.

> “You don’t win multiple Cups by accident,” Lambert noted. “And you don’t lead young players unless you’ve got the room. Pat’s got that. He just has to remember this league doesn’t care what you did last year. Or 20 years ago.”

Lambert’s own experience in New York—navigating expectations, a demanding media market, and a defensive core molded by Trotz—clearly shaped his view of what it takes to succeed there. In his mind, Roy would be wise to blend his signature emotion with a more deliberate, detail-focused approach.

> “It’s not about me. It’s about what works in that room. And trust me, that room wants direction more than it wants a spark.”

What It Means for the Islanders—and the Kraken

For the Islanders, the message may strike a nerve. Roy’s first season behind the bench was marked by a mix of improvement and inconsistency. The power play still sputtered at times. The team’s defensive identity showed flashes of its old form but often lacked cohesion.

Lambert’s comments may sound like a critique, but they could also be read as a blueprint—one coach handing the torch to another, with a clear warning attached.

For the Kraken, meanwhile, Lambert’s leadership is already being felt. Hired to bring order and playoff stability to a team on the rise, Lambert is leaning into the very principles he preached in New York: structure, accountability, and a commitment to smart, two-way hockey.

Bottom Line: A Message Sent Loud and Clear

Lane Lambert didn’t have to say anything. Most coaches, after being fired and replaced, would take the high road with silence. But instead, he chose to speak—directly, clearly, and, some would say, bravely.

Whether Patrick Roy heeds the message or uses it as motivation remains to be seen. But one thing is certain: this wasn’t just talk.

It was a challenge.

And in the NHL, challenges don’t go unanswered for long.