The Edmonton Oilers hire Mike Babcock, as they have made things official today with their decision of their next head coach. This follows a consultation with the NHLPA and an NHL investigation to see if there were any objections to be resolved before hiring Babcock. The ploy for accountability in possibly Connor McDavid‘s final years with the team begins now. In addition, the Oilers have hired D.J. Smith as an assistant coach.
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The #Oilers have named Mike Babcock as Head Coach. https://t.co/WSNNP3Yrni
— Edmonton Oilers (@EdmontonOilers) June 23, 2026
Oilers Hire Mike Babcock Despite Controversy From Previous Stints
Babcock comes with his share of controversy, but he has had a solid track record of coaching in the NHL. In all ten seasons he coached the Detroit Red Wings, the team made the Stanley Cup Playoffs in every single year, including a Stanley Cup win in 2008. He also coached the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim, as well as the Toronto Maple Leafs. The 63-year-old has a record of 700-418-164 along with 19 ties in 1,301 career games coached. He has had 14 playoff appearances in his 17 seasons of NHL coaching.
A History of Controversy Worries Fans and Media Alike
A multitude of players have come out to voice their displeasure throughout the years, Nazem Kadri comes to mind as he referenced it in his book. Moreover, Babcock was a psychology major at McGill University, and he would often use a psychological style of coaching that involved pushing the right buttons and playing mind games, as described in Nazem Kadri’s book.
The latest instance of controversy surrounding Babcock involves allegations of violating privacy after he got hired as head coach of the Columbus Blue Jackets. This led to Babcock announcing his resignation in that same offseason before training camp even began for the 2023-24 regular season.
Babcock Cleared to Coach After NHL Investigation
In an official statement, the NHL have deemed that Babcock is clear to coach.
“The League has completed its review of Mike Babcock’s tenure in Columbus, and of certain alleged conduct associated therewith. Our investigation has concluded that, even in a light least favorable to Mr. Babcock, there is no current basis to restrict his employment in the League,” said the league in a press release.
Stan Bowman and the Oilers obviously want to win now. Babcock may be the coach who can emphasize accountability, but it comes at a high risk of it all crumbling down. Can Babcock’s style of coaching still work in this day and age? Time will tell, as the Oilers have decided their fate. The Oilers will hold a press conference at 12 p.m. Mountain Daylight Time on Tuesday to introduce their new head coach.
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