Mike Babcock was officially named the new head coach of the Edmonton Oilers on Tuesday, but his introductory news conference quickly turned into a hotseat session as reporters pressed him on his past controversies and his plans for the team.
Babcock's Return to the NHL
Babcock, who had been away from an NHL bench since his departure from the Columbus Blue Jackets, acknowledged the scrutiny. "Never thought I'd be back in this league or coach again," he said. He was joined by associate coach D.J. Smith, who worked with Babcock in Toronto and was with the Los Angeles Kings last season. General manager Stan Bowman also attended.
Meeting with Star Players
Babcock revealed that a meeting with Oilers stars Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and Zach Hyman was pivotal. "That was worth the drive, kinda changed everything," Babcock said. He added that they broke down what went wrong in the playoffs and how things will be done moving forward. Babcock told the leadership group, "Unless you are 100% all in on Mike Babcock then I don't want to be the coach."
Addressing Past Issues
When asked about his departure from Columbus, Babcock said, "It was very evident before the year started that we weren't together as a staff from the get go." He also addressed his reputation for harsh communication: "Something the truth is hard. No matter what happens when you scratch people, when you sit them out, it's hard for them for sure. You try to do that as respectfully as you can. Sometimes it's not perceived that way. I don't think my intentions are wrong often but sometimes my tone is for sure."
Bowman's Support
Bowman defended the hiring, stating, "We needed a new voice." He described Babcock as having "a strong pedigree, a lot of experience" and said after their first meeting, "I walked out of there very impressed." On Babcock's long absence from coaching, Bowman added, "You don't forget how to coach and being away from it, perspective is not a bad thing. I think it's going to be like riding a bike."
Smith's Role
D.J. Smith emphasized his independence, saying, "I'm not afraid to tell Mike the truth." Babcock acknowledged the need to adapt: "You have to change and grow as a coach, you just have to." He stressed that actions and interactions with players matter most.
Looking Ahead
Babcock concluded by saying that the players were receptive to his straight talk: "Obviously they were comfortable or I wouldn't be here." The Oilers hope Babcock's experience and new perspective will lead them to a Stanley Cup.
