As the Toronto Maple Leafs continue their search for a new head coach, a familiar name has entered the conversation in Edmonton. Mike Babcock, the former Leafs and Detroit Red Wings coach, is reportedly being considered by the Edmonton Oilers to fill their coaching vacancy created by the firing of Kris Knoblauch in May.
Oilers Consult NHLPA on Babcock
TSN insider Darren Dreger reported on Monday that the Oilers are consulting with the National Hockey League Players' Association to determine if any objections must be resolved before potentially hiring the 63-year-old Babcock. Babcock's most recent NHL coaching stint ended before he even began, as he resigned from the Columbus Blue Jackets in September 2023 amid controversy over asking players to view personal photos on their cellphones.
Babcock's Troubled Past
Babcock's reputation suffered significantly after his firing by the Maple Leafs in November 2019. Reports emerged that he had asked rookie Mitch Marner to rank teammates by work ethic, a list he later shared with the team. Further allegations included verbal mistreatment of Johan Franzen during Babcock's tenure with the Red Wings. Since leaving Columbus, Babcock has not coached in the NHL.
The Oilers' interest in Babcock may stem from the Vegas Golden Knights' refusal to allow them to interview Bruce Cassidy. However, many question whether Babcock, whose only Stanley Cup win came 18 years ago, is the best candidate.
Peter Laviolette Joins LA Kings
Meanwhile, Peter Laviolette, who was reportedly high on the Maple Leafs' list, has agreed to become the next head coach of the Los Angeles Kings. Laviolette, whose 846 coaching wins rank seventh in NHL history, did not coach in 2025-26 after being fired by the New York Rangers in April 2025. It remains unclear whether the Leafs were outbid or chose a different direction.
Maple Leafs Coaching Search Continues
Leafs general manager John Chayka indicated at the NHL scouting combine in Buffalo that the team is entering the next layer of its coaching search. A list of 55 candidates has been narrowed to 20, with in-person interviews expected this week. Potential candidates include Patrick Roy and Joe Pavelski.
Trade Speculation Surrounding Matthew Knies
Chayka also addressed trade speculation, including a reported near-deal that would have sent forward Matthew Knies to the Montreal Canadiens at the trade deadline. Sources suggest the trade fell through by a narrow margin, with the Leafs potentially receiving prospect Alexander Zharovsky, another prospect, and two first-round picks. Chayka emphasized the team's need to fill holes through free agency, internal improvement, and trades.
