Edmonton Oilers consider hiring former coach Mike Babcock

The Edmonton Oilers are exploring the possibility of hiring controversial former coach Mike Babcock, consulting with the NHL Players' Association to determine if any objections must be resolved before a potential hire, according to multiple reports on Monday, June 8. The move comes as the team's search for a new head coach intensifies following the firing of Kris Knoblauch in May.

The Oilers' interest in Babcock is reportedly serious, with sources indicating he has spoken directly with team owner Daryl Katz and has met with members of the team's leadership group. The NHLPA has declined to comment, but reports suggest that if an investigation into Babcock's past is required for the hiring process to proceed, the league would manage it.

Babcock, 63, has not coached an NHL game since being fired by the Toronto Maple Leafs in November 2019. His most recent opportunity ended before it began; he resigned as head coach of the Columbus Blue Jackets in September 2023 following an investigation into allegations he invaded players' privacy by demanding to see personal photos on their cellphones. His departure from Toronto was also marred by accusations of fostering a toxic work...