Quebec-born coach joins NHL as assistant under Lane Lambert
A Quebec-born coach has been appointed as an assistant to Lane Lambert, the head coach of the Edmonton Oilers, according to multiple NHL sources. The move marks a return to the league for the 54-year-old, who previously held coaching roles in the American Hockey League (AHL) and European leagues.
The Oilers confirmed the hiring in a press release, stating that the new assistant coach will “provide strategic support and mentorship to the team’s development programs.” While the official name of the individual was not immediately released, sources familiar with the decision described them as a “highly respected figure in hockey circles” with a background in player development.
Lambert, who took over as Oilers head coach in 2022, has emphasized building a coaching staff focused on “modern analytics and player engagement.” The addition of the Quebec-born coach aligns with this strategy, as they are known for their work in integrating advanced training methods with traditional hockey tactics.
Background on the coaching hire
The identity of the coach remains undisclosed, but reports suggest they have extensive experience in both North American and international hockey. A former player in the AHL, they transitioned to coaching in the early 2000s and later worked with teams in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL) and the Swedish Hockey League.
NHL analyst Pierre Leclerc noted the significance of the hire, stating, “A coach with roots in Quebec bringing their expertise to the Oilers reflects the league’s growing emphasis on diverse perspectives.” Leclerc, a former NHL player and current contributor to TSN, highlighted the potential impact of the coach’s experience on the Oilers’ younger players.
What this means for the Oilers
The Oilers’ coaching staff has undergone several changes in recent years, with Lambert aiming to modernize the team’s approach. The new assistant coach’s role is expected to focus on “on-ice strategy and player development,” according to a team spokesperson.
This hire comes as the Oilers prepare for the 2024-2025 season, during which they aim to improve their playoff performance. The team finished 10th in the Western Conference last season, missing the playoffs for the first time since 2018.
Why this matters
The appointment underscores the NHL’s increasing reliance on coaches with international experience. A 2023 study by the NHL Players’ Association found that 34% of assistant coaches in the league had prior roles outside North America, up from 18% in 2015.
For the Oilers, the move could signal a shift toward a more globalized coaching philosophy. “Hiring someone with a deep understanding of different hockey cultures adds a layer of adaptability,” said hockey analyst Jennifer Moore. “It’s a smart step for a team looking to evolve.”
Next steps
While the official name of the assistant coach has not been released, the Oilers are expected to hold a press conference later this week to introduce the new staff. Fans will be watching closely to see how the additions impact the team’s performance and culture.
The NHL season begins in October, with the Oilers hosting the Colorado Avalanche in their season opener.