Babcock’s Gamble for the Oilers

The Edmonton Oilers just hired Mike Babcock — a coaching legend with a Stanley Cup and two Olympic golds — but the move is loaded with risk. After being blocked from interviewing Bruce Cassidy and with few other veteran options, the Oilers gambled on Babcock, who’s been cleared following an NHL investigation. His resume is elite — 10th all-time in wins — but his last playoff win was 2013, and he’s been out of the NHL since 2019. Worse, his past successes relied on Hall of Fame-caliber rosters, while the Oilers are rebuilding with glaring holes on defense and in goal. With Connor McDavid’s contract extension looming and his championship window closing, the pressure is on. This season could define the franchise — or prove this gamble was too bold. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/accc1cc214decd41