Edmonton Oilers superstar Leon Draisaitl explained why new head coach Mike Babcock is the right fit for the team.
The Oilers shocked the NHL world this offseason when they hired the controversial Babcock to be the team’s new head coach after he was essentially kicked out of the league in 2023, when it was alleged that he was looking at what was on the mobile devices of Columbus Blue Jackets players.
But three years later, Babcock is getting another chance to coach in the NHL, and one of the reasons that he’s getting this second chance is that the Oilers’ top players all wanted him to be their head coach, as they believe he will hold the team accountable.
Leon Draisaitl Explains Why Mike Babcock is Oilers’ Ideal Head Coach
Speaking at the European Player Media Tour, Draisaitl explained why he thinks Babcock is exactly what the Oilers need right now.
“I think he’s got a very clear plan, and I think he holds guys accountable, and I think to him, it’s not about who it is when it comes to accountability, you know? Like, we’re looking to be coached. We’re looking to get better. and I sometimes deserve (to be yelled at) too, just like anyone else does. I don’t think ‘Babs’ is going to care overly much who we are in terms of that. I think sometimes that’s needed,” Draisaitl said (via NHL.com).
“I think he’s just going to bring a different attitude and a different mentality to our group. I think it’s exactly what we need right now. I think he’s going to bring something different, a different look. Everyone’s very excited about it and looking forward to working with him.”
Oilers Among Favorites to Win Stanley Cup
According to DraftKings Sportsbook, the Oilers are the fourth-highest favored team to win the 2026-27 NHL Stanley Cup, currently sitting at +800 odds to do so.
With a proven Stanley Cup-winning head coach in Babcock coaching the Oilers’ superstars, Draisaitl and McDavid, there is hope and optimism that 2027 is the year that Edmonton can finally break through and win the Stanley Cup.
Leon Draisaitl Explains Why Mike Babcock is Right Fit for Oilers