Former 1st round pick from 2022 placed on waivers today

Brad Lambert's NHL journey has hit another significant roadblock, with the Winnipeg Jets reportedly placing the young forward on waivers.

According to NHL insider Darren Dreger, Winnipeg has made Lambert available to the rest of the league, potentially bringing an end to his immediate opportunity with the organization. It's a notable development for a player who was once viewed as one of the more intriguing prospects in the Jets' system.

The 22-year-old Lambert was selected 30th overall by Winnipeg in the first round of the 2022 NHL Draft. He arrived with plenty of expectations, having established himself as an exciting offensive prospect before turning professional. However, translating that potential into consistent NHL production has proven to be a difficult challenge.

Lambert has struggled to establish himself as a regular in Winnipeg's lineup, frequently bouncing between the NHL club and its AHL affiliate, the Manitoba Moose. Through 42 career NHL games, he has managed just three goals and six assists for nine points. His 2026-27 campaign hasn't exactly gone according to plan either, with just one assist through his first 11 appearances.

There is also an interesting family connection worth mentioning. Brad is the nephew of Seattle Kraken head coach Lane Lambert, meaning hockey certainly runs in the family. Lane has established himself as a respected NHL coach, while Brad is still attempting to find his footing as an NHL player.

Being placed on waivers doesn't necessarily mean Lambert's time in Winnipeg is officially over, but it does open the door for another organization to potentially take a chance on the former first-round selection.

At just 22 years old, there is still plenty of time for Lambert to turn things around. However, his placement on waivers is another reminder that being a highly touted prospect doesn't always guarantee a successful NHL career.