The Edmonton Oilers have named Mike Babcock as their new head coach, the team announced on June 23, 2026. Babcock, 63, replaces Jay Woodcroft, who was fired after the Oilers were eliminated in the second round of the playoffs. The decision comes as Edmonton seeks to maximize the prime years of stars Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl.
Babcock's Coaching Pedigree
Babcock is one of the most decorated coaches in NHL history, with a Stanley Cup championship (2008 with Detroit Red Wings), two Olympic gold medals (2010, 2014 with Team Canada), and a World Cup of Hockey title (2016). He also led the Anaheim Ducks to the 2003 Stanley Cup Final. His NHL regular-season record is 700-418-19-134, with 50 playoff wins. He was fired by the Toronto Maple Leafs in November 2019 after a 9-10-4 start, amid controversy over player treatment.
Return to Coaching
Babcock had not coached in the NHL since his dismissal from Toronto. He spent the 2020-21 season as a consultant for the University of Vermont men's hockey team. In 2023, he briefly accepted a head coaching job with the Columbus Blue Jackets but resigned before coaching a game after a player complained about inappropriate behaviour. The NHL Players' Association investigated but found no wrongdoing.
Oilers' Expectations
Edmonton general manager Ken Holland, who worked with Babcock in Detroit, praised his hiring. “Mike is a winner. He knows how to build a culture and get the most out of his players,” Holland said in a statement. The Oilers have reached the playoffs in four of the past five seasons but have not advanced past the second round since 2006. Babcock's task is to lead the team to its first Stanley Cup final appearance in two decades.
Reaction from Players
McDavid, the Oilers captain, expressed support for the hire. “Mike is a proven coach. We're all excited to get started and work toward our goal of winning a championship,” he said. The Oilers open training camp in September.
