The Edmonton Oilers have named Mike Babcock as their new head coach ahead of the 2026-27 NHL season, a move that has stirred discussion in the hockey world.
Babcock, a Stanley Cup-winning coach, carries a controversial recent history. He resigned from the Columbus Blue Jackets in 2023 before the season started.
The NHL investigated the circumstances and later cleared him to coach again.
The Oilers are betting on Babcock's ability to lead the team to a championship.
Forward Zach Hyman, who played under Babcock with the Toronto Maple Leafs, supports the hiring.
"As a player, you don't have much say on the coaching stuff.
But I had played for Babs, so obviously I was asked about my experience, and I had a great experience with him," Hyman said.
"He was phenomenal to me as a young player… I think extremely highly of him as a coach.
His ability to teach. He's an unbelievable coach… a lot of excitement from our group."
Hyman acknowledged the importance of the NHL's investigation into Babcock's past.
"I think it was really important that the NHL and the NHLPA did the process that they needed to do.
Obviously, he was cleared to coach again… we're all comfortable with Babs and with what he brought, and we think that it's something that's going to be really good for our group," he said.
Babcock's coaching style is known for discipline, intensity, and structure. This raises questions about his fit with star players like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl.
During his time in Toronto, he favored two-way wingers such as Hyman and Connor Brown and carefully balanced offensive lines.
There is speculation about his approach to managing young talent and goalie deployment. Babcock previously named Jonathan Bernier as the starting goalie with shared duties.
He may similarly manage Frederik Andersen and Tristan Jarry in Edmonton.
Critics remain cautious due to past allegations of bullying and controversial tactics. However, insiders note a potential adjustment in his approach.
As reported, "He never did anything bad enough to warrant the NHL boycotting his employment forever… He'll have finally realized that this isn't the time or place to go full bully Babcock."
Questions also surround how the Oilers' leadership group will respond if Babcock pushes boundaries. Key players are reportedly open to being held accountable but unwilling to tolerate disrespect.
Despite external skepticism, there is internal confidence that McDavid will not oppose the hire.
"The narrative that the Oilers going out and hiring Babcock will somehow push McDavid to the brink and lead to a trade request is ridiculous," according to sources familiar with the team.
Pressure on Babcock is already mounting, with public speculation about his job security even before the season begins.
The intensity of the Canadian market means any early struggles could quickly escalate scrutiny on his coaching.
