Paul Coffey Rejoins Oilers as Assistant Coach

Edmonton Oilers head coach Kris Knoblauch announced on Tuesday that Hall of Fame defenseman Paul Coffey is rejoining the team's coaching staff as an assistant, focusing on the defensive corps. The move comes as the Oilers, currently second in the Pacific Division, seek to reverse a slide in their defensive performance during the 2025-26 season. Coffey, who previously held the role from November 2023 through the end of the prior campaign, is expected to be behind the bench when play resumes next week following the Olympic break.

Coffey stepped away from coaching duties last July to resume his position as a special advisor to the team's ownership and hockey operations. During his earlier stint, the Oilers ranked fifth in the NHL with a goals-against average of 2.78. This season, however, Edmonton sits 25th league-wide at 3.29 goals against per game, a statistic that has prompted the organization to act with 24 games remaining. The team entered the break on a three-game losing streak, allowing 34 goals over their last seven contests.

Knoblauch, who has maintained regular contact with Coffey since his departure, described the return as a timely addition. "I have been in regular...