Dec 5, 2024; Buffalo, New York, USA; Winnipeg Jets center Brad Lambert (93) looks to make a pass during the first period against the Buffalo Sabres at KeyBank Center. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-Imagn Images

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Winnipeg Jets Recall Brad Lambert Amid Roster Adjustments

Winnipeg Jets bring up Brad Lambert, showcasing confidence in their young forward's potential impact on the team.

It appears Brad Lambert’s recent demotion was merely a paper transaction to manage cap space. The Winnipeg Jets announced on Monday that Lambert has been added back to the active roster. However, whether he’ll suit up for Tuesday’s game against the Canadiens remains unclear.

Lambert’s time with Winnipeg was short-lived, as the team confirmed he’s been reassigned to the Manitoba Moose. Notably, he didn’t play in their matchup against Utah on Friday.

The Jets initially recalled their top forward prospect, Brad Lambert, from AHL Manitoba on Friday. This move followed captain Adam Lowry being placed on injured reserve earlier in the week. With an open spot on the roster, no corresponding transaction was necessary.

Brad Lambert is back with the #Jets this morning: https://t.co/dw6iIpx3oO
— Pro Hockey Rumors (@prohockeyrumors) January 27, 2025

At 21, Lambert could see his most extended NHL stint yet, as Lowry is sidelined week-to-week with an upper-body injury. Without Lowry, the Jets lack significant offensive depth at center behind Mark Scheifele and Vladislav Namestnikov. Lambert’s addition offers a chance to boost scoring in the bottom six, as relying on Rasmus Kupari and David Gustafsson down the middle for the third and fourth lines isn’t a sustainable solution.

Also Read: New York Islanders Place Ryan Pulock and Marcus Hogberg on Injured Reserve

Since being selected 30th overall in the 2022 NHL Draft, Lambert has made five NHL appearances, including four earlier this season when Nikolaj Ehlers was injured. While he didn’t record any points during those games, Lambert notched his first NHL assist during his debut last season.

In the AHL, Lambert has struggled offensively this season compared to his impressive 55-point rookie campaign in 2023-24. He’s managed just three goals and 13 assists for 16 points in 29 games with Manitoba. Despite his limited output, those 16 points tie him for second in team scoring, highlighting the broader offensive issues plaguing the Moose. However, his -15 rating is the second-worst on the team, trailing only Jaret Anderson-Dolan.

The Jets may benefit from giving Lambert more NHL ice time to better evaluate his development rather than leaving him in a challenging minor-league environment. As both a center and right winger, Lambert could be an option for Winnipeg’s lineup tonight against Utah.

Image Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-Imagn Images

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Winnipeg Jets

Anamika Shrivastava

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I’ve always loved writing and storytelling, and hockey gives me a perfect stage for endless stories to tell. Whether it’s breaking down a game, analyzing a big trade, or capturing the emotions on the ice, I bring the NHL to life through words. So what’s the best part you ask? Watching the action unfold and turning it into something fans can connect with. To my readers: Hockey is more than just a game—it’s the highs, the heartbreaks, and the moments that make us jump off our seats. So, keep cheering, keep debating, and never stop loving the madness of the sport!