NHL Waiting on Oilers as Potential Mike Babcock Investigation Looms

The Edmonton Oilers‘ head coaching search has taken another dramatic turn.

According to reports from NHL insiders Darren Dreger and Pierre LeBrun, the NHL Players’ Association has asked the league to move forward with an investigation into allegations surrounding Mike Babcock’s time with the Columbus Blue Jackets. However, that investigation will only proceed if the Oilers decide to continue down the path of hiring the veteran coach.

LeBrun clarified that the league is currently waiting on Edmonton’s decision. If the Oilers ultimately choose not to hire Babcock, there would be no reason for the NHL to move forward with the requested review.

The latest development adds another layer of complexity to what has already become one of the most scrutinized coaching searches in recent memory.

Why Invite More Controversy?

From Edmonton’s perspective, this latest report should raise an important question: why put yourself in a position where a formal investigation is necessary before your coach even signs a contract?

The NHLPA has asked the NHL to move forward with an investigation into the allegations Mike Babcock invaded players privacy during his time in Columbus.

— Darren Dreger (@DarrenDreger) June 10, 2026

Babcock’s resume speaks for itself. He has won a Stanley Cup, Olympic gold medals, and more than 700 NHL games. There is no debating his accomplishments.

But if the process of hiring a coach requires league involvement and an investigation into past allegations, it may be a sign that the organization should reconsider whether this is the right direction.

The Oilers are in a win-now window with Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. The focus should be entirely on building the best possible environment to win a championship — not managing headlines and potential controversy before training camp even begins.

There Is No Need to Rush

Perhaps the biggest takeaway from this situation is that Edmonton does not need to force a decision.

While Babcock remains an option, there is no urgency to make a hire immediately. Other candidates remain available, and one name that continues to hover over the market is Bruce Cassidy.

If there is any possibility that Cassidy becomes available, the Oilers owe it to themselves to wait for complete clarity before moving forward with another candidate. Cassidy has a recent Stanley Cup on his resume, is widely respected around the league, and would arrive without the baggage that currently surrounds Babcock.

Patience could prove valuable.

If it becomes clear that Cassidy is not an option, Edmonton can then revisit other candidates and proceed accordingly. There is no shortage of experienced coaches available, and the organization should conduct a thorough process rather than rush into a potentially divisive decision.

Oilers Must Get This Right

The stakes have never been higher for Edmonton.

With McDavid’s future continuing to dominate conversations around the franchise, every major decision matters. The next head coach will play a significant role in determining whether the Oilers can finally break through and capture a Stanley Cup.

Hiring Babcock may still remain on the table, but the newest reports suggest the organization has another opportunity to pause and evaluate its options.

And if an investigation is required before a coach can even officially be hired, that alone might provide the answer Edmonton needs.

Next: He’s Not Leaving? Oilers Insider Expects Connor McDavid to Extend Long Term