The Edmonton Oilers are not in the Stanley Cup Final this time around, but their spotlight has not diminished as they evaluate a major decision behind the bench. Interest in Mike Babcock has generated strong reactions across the hockey world, particularly as the organization waits for clarity from an ongoing NHL review.
While some within the franchise reportedly support the move, others with firsthand experience have raised concerns about what it could mean for the team’s future. These concerns recently resurfaced through comments from a former player who knows Babcock’s methods well.
Frank Corrado Raises Concerns About Mike Babcock to the Oilers
Frank Corrado has become one of the latest voices to weigh in on the possibility of Babcock becoming the next head coach of the Oilers, and his assessment was far from an endorsement.
Speaking on Leafs Morning Take, Corrado discussed the growing speculation surrounding Babcock and admitted he was not surprised to hear Edmonton’s name connected to the veteran coach.
“I was not surprised because I think I said it to Dregs [Darren Dreger] at one point when we were doing a SportsCenter Hot Zone, just watching a game,” Corrado said. “I was like, if I’m the Oilers, I’d call him. And the reason why I would call him is just to hear what he has to say about how our team plays.
“What structure do you think they need to have on the ice, or how do you get less turnovers, or whatever the case may be? I was intrigued by it, but almost at the back of my mind, I was not sure if it was actually going to happen. And sure enough, here we are. It certainly is happening.”
Reflecting on Babcock’s coaching tendencies, Corrado cautioned that the Oilers should carefully consider the consequences of bringing in a coach known for rigid lineup decisions.
He pointed to examples from Babcock’s time in Toronto, recalling situations where players like Patrick Marleau received more ice time than Auston Matthews because the coach preferred certain matchups or line combinations.
“Be careful what you wish for,” Corrado said before referencing playoff situations in Toronto. He then added, “I can’t wait to see that happen in Edmonton,” suggesting that Oilers fans may react strongly if key players find themselves in reduced roles due to coaching preferences.
These remarks carry additional significance because Corrado experienced Babcock’s management style firsthand. After joining the Maple Leafs in 2015, the defenseman spent lengthy stretches out of the lineup despite being healthy. Reports from that period described prolonged healthy scratches and limited opportunities to work back into the lineup.
The Oilers have shifted their focus toward Babcock after moving on from Kris Knoblauch and being unable to secure permission to interview Bruce Cassidy. Reports indicate Babcock has already met with owner Daryl Katz and members of the team’s leadership group, including Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl.
Despite that support, the process remains paused. The NHL Players’ Association has requested a formal review of Babcock’s previous tenure with the Columbus Blue Jackets, where he resigned before coaching a regular-season game.
The review reportedly extends beyond the cellphone-related controversy that surfaced in 2023 and includes additional allegations that are now being examined.
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While Babcock’s coaching record includes a Stanley Cup and significant success with Team Canada, Corrado’s remarks suggest some former players remain concerned about whether that management style still fits today’s NHL.
