The Edmonton Oilers are reportedly considering Mike Babcock as their next head coach, a move that has left many questioning the team's judgment. This development comes during what is arguably the most important season in franchise history, and the coaching search has already been marked by a series of embarrassing missteps.
A Bizarre Coaching Search
The saga began when news emerged that the Oilers had requested permission to interview Bruce Cassidy, even though the head coaching position was not yet vacant. Kris Knoblauch had just signed a new three-year contract that had not yet taken effect. The request was denied by Vegas Golden Knights general manager Kelly McCrimmon, who reportedly laughed at the turmoil it caused for Edmonton.
Left with no other option, the Oilers fired Knoblauch three months before his new $7.8 million contract was set to begin. This effectively allowed McCrimmon to have a say in who Edmonton's next coach would be. After a lengthy wait, the team then asked the NHLPA whether there were any issues that needed to be resolved before potentially hiring Mike Babcock.
Mike Babcock's Controversial History
Babcock was fired by the Toronto Maple Leafs in 2019 amid allegations of a toxic work environment. He later resigned from the Columbus Blue Jackets before coaching a single game due to unprofessional conduct. He has not won a playoff series since 2013. Former Detroit Red Wings players have described him as a bully, with Johan Franzen calling him "a terrible person, the worst I have ever met." Chris Chelios recalled Franzen suffering a nervous breakdown due to Babcock's behavior.
The fact that the Oilers need to ask the NHL or NHLPA if Babcock is even allowed to return should raise red flags, but in Edmonton, it seems to be business as usual. The team appears to be heading toward a disastrous decision, one that could have long-lasting consequences for the franchise.
