The Edmonton Oilers appear to be closing in on naming their next head coach, with multiple insiders indicating an announcement could come as early as tomorrow.
According to Jason Gregor, Mike Babcock is flying into Edmonton tonight, while general manager Stan Bowman is also expected to arrive ahead of the NHL Draft. Both are reportedly expected to remain in the city through draft weekend and potentially leading into free agency. TSN’s Ryan Rishaug added further fuel to the speculation, noting that he also expects the Oilers to officially introduce Babcock during a press conference scheduled on Tuesday June 23.
If the reports prove accurate, Edmonton will be turning to one of the most accomplished—and most scrutinized—coaches in modern NHL history.
Babcock Would Bring Structure and Accountability
Regardless of opinion surrounding him, Babcock’s resume speaks for itself. The veteran bench boss has won a Stanley Cup with the Detroit Red Wings, captured two Olympic gold medals with Team Canada, and ranks among the winningest coaches in league history.
His teams have traditionally been built on structure, discipline, and accountability. For an Oilers team that has consistently been among the NHL’s elite offensively but has fallen short of winning the Stanley Cup, management may believe a tougher voice is necessary to push the group over the top.
Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl have repeatedly shown they embrace demanding environments and expect high standards from themselves and their teammates. Babcock’s approach could help strengthen Edmonton’s defensive game while bringing added structure throughout the lineup.
While his coaching style has often been described as hard on players, there is no question that he demands excellence. In a championship window where every season matters, the Oilers appear willing to prioritize experience and accountability.
The Hope Is That Lessons Have Been Learned
Any potential Babcock hiring will naturally bring controversy.
His departures from Toronto and Columbus led to criticism regarding his relationships with players and the methods he used behind the scenes. Those concerns remain valid and will continue to be discussed if he officially becomes Edmonton’s next head coach.
The hope from the Oilers’ perspective would be that time away from coaching has allowed Babcock to reflect and evolve. Coaches grow just as players do, and if he has learned from the mistakes that damaged his reputation while retaining the qualities that made him successful, Edmonton could ultimately benefit from the move.
The key will be building trust inside the dressing room while maintaining the demanding culture that management believes can help produce a championship.
Nurse Trade Could Be Next
Gregor also reported that the Oilers would like to finalize a Darnell Nurse trade before free agency opens. The organization wants clarity on its roster and salary cap situation before July 1, allowing management to attack the market with a clear understanding of available openings.
Moving Nurse would create additional flexibility, but it would also leave a sizeable hole on the left side of the defense. Edmonton would likely need another left-shot defenseman either as part of the return package or through free agency. With Connor Murphy returning and Jake Walman expected to receive a larger role next season, the Oilers appear ready to reshape their blue line.
Should both a coaching announcement and a major trade occur over the next week, Edmonton’s offseason could quickly become one of the most significant in franchise history.
Next: Every Insider Is Saying the Same Thing About a Zach Werenski Trade
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