The Edmonton Oilers have received clearance from the NHL to hire controversial Stanley Cup-winning coach Mike Babcock, according to a report from Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman.
NHL Gives Green Light
Friedman announced on social media that the league has cleared Babcock to join the Oilers, stating, "NHL is clearing Mike Babcock to coach the Edmonton Oilers. They are free to hire him." This development ends speculation about potential obstacles to Babcock's return behind an NHL bench.
Babcock's Controversial Past
Babcock, who led the Detroit Red Wings to a Stanley Cup championship in 2008, has been out of the NHL since 2019 after his tenure with the Toronto Maple Leafs ended amid allegations of mistreating players. He has not coached since, but the Oilers have been linked to him as a potential replacement or addition to their coaching staff.
The Oilers, led by superstars Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, are seeking to return to championship contention after falling short in recent playoffs. Babcock's experience and winning pedigree could be seen as assets, though his history raises questions about team culture.
More details are expected to emerge as the Oilers finalize their coaching plans for the upcoming season.
