The Edmonton Oilers officially rounded out Mike Babcock’s coaching staff on Tuesday, announcing that D.J. Smith has been hired as an associate coach. Smith reunites with Babcock after previously serving under him with the Toronto Maple Leafs beginning in 2015. The pair spent four seasons together in Toronto before Smith earned his first NHL head coaching opportunity with the Ottawa Senators in 2019.
Most recently, the 49-year-old served as interim head coach of the Los Angeles Kings during the 2025-26 season, posting an 11-6-6 record after taking over behind the bench in March. Smith originally joined the Kings organization as an assistant coach in February 2024.
Before his NHL head coaching career, Smith built an impressive résumé in junior hockey. He spent eight seasons with the Windsor Spitfires, winning two Memorial Cups, before taking over the Oshawa Generals and guiding them to an OHL championship and a Memorial Cup title in 2015.
During his five seasons with the Senators, Smith compiled a 131-154-32 record in 317 games. His 131 victories rank second all-time among Ottawa head coaches.
The addition gives Edmonton a veteran voice behind the bench and provides Babcock with a trusted lieutenant who is familiar with his systems and coaching philosophy. Smith’s experience as both an NHL head coach and assistant should help strengthen the Oilers’ staff as the organization looks to take another step toward championship contention.
Prior to coaching, Smith played 45 NHL games between the Toronto Maple Leafs and Colorado Avalanche and appeared in 393 AHL contests over nine seasons.
With Babcock and Smith reunited in Edmonton, the Oilers are hoping their long-standing relationship can help bring stability and success behind the bench heading into the 2026-27 season.
Next: Oilers Name Mike Babcock as 19th Head Coach in Franchise History
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