'I'm quite skeptical': Edmonton Oilers coach already under fire
Mike Babcock has been hired as the new head coach of the Edmonton Oilers, sparking immediate skepticism from fans and media. Critics, including ESPN's Greg Wyshynski, question whether Babcock's coaching style will actually improve the performance of star players Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl.
Why it matters
The hiring of a controversial figure like Babcock for a high-profile NHL team highlights the tension between management's desire for traditional authority and modern analytical skepticism regarding coaching impact.
Copy Link Email X Reddit Pinterest LinkedIn Tumblr 'I'm quite skeptical': Edmonton Oilers coach already under fire Author of the article: By David Staples • Edmonton Journal Published Sep 22, 2026 Last updated 2 hours ago 5 minute read Join the conversation Oilers coach Mike Babcock Article content The NHL season has yet to start but new Edmonton Oilers coach Mike Babcock is already under fire.
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That’s to be expected, as a large contingent of fans and media weren’t happy with the way Edmonton axed former coach Kris Knoblauch and aren’t pleased that an alpha male like Babcock has seemingly risen from the dead to coach one of the NHL’s most talented squads.
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