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Oilers Hire Babcock Amid Star Trio Condition, Probe

6/25/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Edmonton Oilers announced hiring Mike Babcock as head coach on June 24, 2026.
Mike Babcock said he would join if Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl and Zach Hyman were all-in.
Connor McDavid said the team needed a coach who would push them, calling the old method insanity.
The hiring triggered an NHL/NHLPA investigation into Mike Babcock’s past conduct, with his résumé showing a 2008 Stanley Cup but no playoff-series win since 2013.

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Story summary

Edmonton Oilers announced hiring Mike Babcock as head coach on June 24, 2026.
Mike Babcock said he would join if Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl and Zach Hyman were all-in.
Connor McDavid said the team needed a coach who would push them, calling the old method insanity.
The hiring triggered an NHL/NHLPA investigation into Mike Babcock’s past conduct, with his résumé showing a 2008 Stanley Cup but no playoff-series win since 2013.