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Oilers Hire Babcock as Coach Amid NHLPA Concerns

6/23/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On June 23, 2026, the Edmonton Oilers named coach Mike Babcock as their 19th head coach and appointed D.J. Smith as associate coach.
The National Hockey League (NHL) found no basis to bar his hiring, while the National Hockey League Players' Association (NHLPA) said his past conduct is concerning but expects compliance.
His résumé includes a 2008 Stanley Cup, Olympic golds in 2010 and 2014, and a 700-418-164 record.

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Story summary

On June 23, 2026, the Edmonton Oilers named coach Mike Babcock as their 19th head coach and appointed D.J. Smith as associate coach.
The National Hockey League (NHL) found no basis to bar his hiring, while the National Hockey League Players' Association (NHLPA) said his past conduct is concerning but expects compliance.
His résumé includes a 2008 Stanley Cup, Olympic golds in 2010 and 2014, and a 700-418-164 record.