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.
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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.
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