The Edmonton Oilers continue to flirt with Mike Babcock, as the team looks for a new head coach. A new report says that Edmonton’s leadership group wants Babcock to take over the head coaching duties.
“My understanding is there is full-throated support from that (Oilers) leadership group for the Oilers to go ahead and hire Babcock if they can,” TSN’s Ryan Rishaug said in an interview with Jay Onrait.
What would the reaction be if the Oilers do hire Mike Babcock? TSN Oilers reporter @TSNRyanRishaug joins @JayOnrait to discuss. pic.twitter.com/paUemZ0pjy
— JayOnSC (@JayOnSC) June 9, 2026
Another report from ESPN stated the Oilers were closing in on a deal with Babcock. Babcock won a Stanley Cup title coaching the Detroit Red Wings in 2008. While he had success as a NHL head coach, Babcock would also bring some baggage.
“Babcock was last hired by the Columbus Blue Jackets in 2023 but ended up never coaching a game with the franchise. He resigned after an NHLPA investigation into claims that he violated players’ privacy when he asked to see photos on their cellphones. The NHLPA shared its findings with the NHL, which shared them with Blue Jackets management. Team president John Davidson said “we got it wrong” in hiring Babcock,” ESPN reported.
Oilers players reportedly were monitoring the situation with Babcock.
“The NHLPA confirmed that Oilers players have reached out regarding Babcock’s status and any open investigations into his conduct. TSN first reported on the Oilers’ interest in Babcock,” ESPN added.
There will be pressure on Edmonton’s next head coach, no matter who it is. The Oilers made back-to-back trips to the Stanley Cup Final in 2024 and 2025. Edmonton lost in both years to the Florida Panthers.
Edmonton posted 93 points during the 2025-26 season. The Oilers made the Stanley Cup Playoffs, but lost to the Anaheim Ducks.
Edmonton fired previous head coach Kris Knoblauch, following the team’s run in this year’s playoffs. The Oilers were reportedly also interested in Jared Bednar, if the Colorado Avalanche fired him.
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