According to multiple reports, the Edmonton Oilers are exploring the possibility of hiring former Stanley Cup-winning HC Mike Babcock as their new bench boss.
Babcock, who last coached the Columbus Blue Jackets back in 2023, is a controversial choice for the Oilers, but one that is being backed by team insider and color commentator Bob Stauffer.
Speaking on the Oilers Now podcast, Stauffer indicated that the deal is as good as done, and that Babcock is set to be the Oilers’ next head coach.
“I’m not going to bull you, okay? I’m going to tell you exactly the way it is. 100% Mike Babcock is the Edmonton Oilers’ guy.”
Stauffer noted that Babcock was the team’s consensus pick for the head coach role that is currently vacant following the firing of Kris Knoblauch earlier in May, after the Edmonton Oilers’ early exit from the 2026 Stanley Cup playoffs, after a first round loss to the Anaheim Ducks.
“From ownership, to management, to the players, he is the selection… From top to bottom, Babcock’s their guy.”
As certain as Stauffer sounded, he did go on to note that the only way the deal falls through is if the NHLPA objects to Babcock’s return to the league following the 2023 scandal that eventually led to him resigning as Blue Jackets HC even before coaching a single game.
“Assuming there are no complications carrying forward here from the NHL, Mike Babcock will be the next head coach of the Edmonton Oilers. It’s inevitable,” Stauffer added.
The prospect of Babcock joining the Oilers has left fans divided, but it seems it’s only a matter of time before he takes on the new role.
Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl consulted by Oilers brass over Mike Babcock hire
According to NHL insider David Pagnotta, team management consulted with captain Connor McDavid and fellow Oilers superstar Leon Draisaitl before deciding on pursuing Babcock for the HC role.
Pagnotta reported that GM Stan Bowman and Edmonton’s front office sought input from the team’s leadership group regarding the decision.
“Sources indicate Edmonton’s management brass consulted with its core players, including captain Connor McDavid, before having talks with Babcock. Final decisions, though, are made by owner/managers,” said Pagnotta on X.
Following two Stanley Cup Final runs, the Oilers crashed out in the first round of this season’s playoffs. Reports indicated that the team wanted a vocal presence on the bench. If that is the case, the Oilers will get what they asked for in Mike Babcock.
Edited by Srihari Anand