The Edmonton Oilers are facing back-to-back controversies since parting ways with Kris Knoblauch, a coach who guided the team to consecutive Stanley Cup Final appearances.
This summer, they were expected to focus on roster upgrades, but now they also have the daunting task of hiring a new coach to guide the group. Amid this predicament, a fresh report has connected Mike Babcock to the vacancy, as their Bruce Cassidy conversation remains stuck in limbo.
With Edmonton searching for its next voice behind the bench, questions have grown louder about whether bringing back one of hockey’s most polarizing coaches is the right move.
Jason Gregor Slams Oilers Over Mike Babcock Pursuit
Babcock’s name has become one of the biggest talking points surrounding the Oilers’ coaching vacancy since Monday afternoon. Reports indicate Edmonton is moving closer to a hiring decision, with management reportedly consulting the NHLPA regarding any lingering workplace concerns while also discussing the possibility with key leadership figures within the organization.
The strongest reaction came from Oilers insider Jason Gregor during a recent appearance on The Jason Gregor Show. Gregor sharply criticized the organization’s interest in Babcock and questioned why Edmonton would even consider moving forward with the veteran coach.
“Whether he becomes the head coach or not, the fact that they’re even doing it tells me where the organization is going,” Gregor said. “And I’m sorry, it doesn’t look like it’s going in the best direction. It is utterly disgusting.”
He continued by challenging supporters of the potential hire, saying, “I would love anyone to give me a reason why it would be a good idea to hire Mike Babcock.”
Gregor also dismissed arguments centered on Babcock’s international success, pointing to the strength of Team Canada’s Olympic roster and stating there was little justification for overlooking the coach’s history with players.
His harshest comments came near the end of his remarks when he said, “The Edmonton Oilers as an organization should be embarrassed that they’re even contemplating hiring a coach who has had that many transgressions that were just horrible in how he treated his players.”
Gregor later expanded on his position through a post on X. The Oilers insider wrote, “Winning with All-Star lineups has no impact on NHL coaching for me. Hasn’t won a playoff series since 2013. Hasn’t coached an NHL game since 2019. Most importantly, he has a history of repeating being POS as a coach.”
The debate didn’t end with one voice.
NHL reporter Alex Micheletti referenced one of the most frequently discussed moments from Babcock’s coaching career, posting on X, “Let’s never forget that Mike Babcock healthy scratched Mike Modano so that he didn’t reach 1,500 NHL games played, finishing at 1,499. No need for him back in the league.”
Meanwhile, analyst Paul Almeida highlighted an unusual connection involving Oilers forward Zach Hyman. Almeida wrote, “Last week, Zach Hyman’s Brantford Bulldogs hired Michael Babcock as head coach. Three days later, the Oilers hire his dad, Mike Babcock, as their coach.”
The strong reactions show how divided the opinion is regarding Babcock. His resume includes 700 NHL coaching wins, a Stanley Cup championship, Olympic gold medals, and membership in hockey’s Triple Gold Club.
At the same time, past controversies involving player treatment and workplace conduct continue to follow him years after his last NHL game behind the bench.
ALSO READ: NHL Fans Stunned as Oilers Consider Hiring Ex-Maple Leafs Boss Mike Babcock
For Edmonton, this is no longer just a coaching search. The organization is weighing a move that comes with significant baggage, and the reaction from insiders and media figures makes it clear that a Babcock hire will face tough questions from day one.
Even before a contract is signed, the debate around his potential arrival is already casting a shadow over the Oilers’ next (and arguably most crucial) chapter.
