The National Hockey League does not seem to approve, but Mike Babcock is heading to Edmonton. After a comedic soap opera lasting nearly six weeks and involving three coaches, two teams, and a league investigation, Babcock is set to take the reins of the Oilers.
League Investigation Clears Babcock
The NHL completed its review of Babcock's tenure in Columbus, focusing on a 2023 incident where he pressured players to show personal photos on their phones. The league stated, "Our investigation has concluded that, even in a light least favourable to Mr. Babcock, there is no current basis to restrict his employment in the League." However, questions remain: if the incident was not damning, why did Babcock quit Columbus, and why has no other team hired him since?
A Desperate Move by the Oilers
Putting the team's tenuous balance in Babcock's hands is a monster gamble. The Oilers, who have blamed coaching for their struggles, are hoping a change will restore their Stanley Cup contender status. They fired their fifth coach in 11 years last season, and Babcock will be the sixth in 12 years if he lasts until the season opener. This move screams desperation as the team slides fast and needs to stop the decline before it crashes.
If the gamble pays off, the Oilers could be like the Oakland Raiders—winning a championship with undesirables while the league frowns. If it fails, expect a rebuild, tarnished reputations, lost jobs, and players heading for the exits. The Oilers will become a laughingstock.
Oilers Need an Ass-Kicker
From the owner to Connor McDavid, everyone is on the hook. They interviewed Babcock, know his past, and chose him to set the dressing room culture. If this blows up, their reputations suffer. But if they want the most ruthless coach on the market to bring discipline to a team lacking it, good on them. The Oilers are not Carolina, Florida, or Tampa Bay—well-oiled machines with self-policing players. Edmonton needs a culture change, and Babcock may be the one to deliver it.
