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Oilers Target Mike Babcock Amid Probe Over Conduct

6/11/2026

Summary

Oilers Pursue Babcock

The Edmonton Oilers are pursuing former Stanley Cup-winning coach Mike Babcock after firing Kris Knoblauch.
Owner Daryl Katz, captain Connor McDavid and alternate Leon Draisaitl have approved Babcock’s hiring.
The NHL Players’ Association has asked for a league probe of Babcock’s 2023 Columbus privacy conduct, pending Edmonton’s hiring decision.
The Oilers view Babcock as a hard-ass who could restore defensive structure despite his past controversies.

Summary

Knights Block Interview

The Vegas Golden Knights denied the Edmonton Oilers’ request to interview former coach Bruce Cassidy, citing his existing contract.
Deputy commissioner Bill Daly said the Knights are within their contractual rights to block the interview.
The NHL Coaches’ Association publicly expressed dissatisfaction with the Knights’ decision.
After the refusal, the Knights hired Peter Laviolette as their new head coach, prompting the Oilers to intensify their search for an alternative candidate.

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Oilers Pursue Babcock

The Edmonton Oilers are pursuing former Stanley Cup-winning coach Mike Babcock after firing Kris Knoblauch.
Owner Daryl Katz, captain Connor McDavid and alternate Leon Draisaitl have approved Babcock’s hiring.
The NHL Players’ Association has asked for a league probe of Babcock’s 2023 Columbus privacy conduct, pending Edmonton’s hiring decision.
The Oilers view Babcock as a hard-ass who could restore defensive structure despite his past controversies.

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