Connor McDavid‘s public support for Mike Babcock has led to debate among Edmonton Oilers fans. The NHL star addressed the coaching change during Zach Hyman’s annual charity golf tournament on Monday.
McDavid defended the organization’s decision after meeting with Babcock before the hiring. His comments reflected the confidence shown by Edmonton’s leadership group throughout the coaching search.
“We see a great opportunity to be coached by someone who’s coached in every single big game there is to coach in,” McDavid said.
“Who’s been successful, won Cups, gold medals, you name it, he’s done it,” McDavid continued. “It’s a great opportunity for us players to be coached by somebody like him and learn from him.”
The endorsement came one month after Edmonton officially named Babcock its 19th head coach. The move followed an NHL review into allegations surrounding his 2023 exit from Columbus. The league cleared Babcock to return before the Oilers finalized the hire.
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NHL Fans remain divided over Babcock’s return
McDavid’s comments did little to settle concerns among some fans. Many responded online by questioning whether opinions would change once the season begins.
One fan wrote, “Ask him again in January about his thoughts on Babs.”
Another posted, “Man I bet those three are so happy they signed up to talk about/defend Trashbag Babcock all season long this year!” The comment referred to McDavid, Zach Hyman, and Leon Draisaitl.
A third fan questioned Babcock’s reputation, writing, “Crazy how a coach wins a cup 20 years ago with like 10 hall of famers and still gets this much clout.”
One fan wrote, “He should go back and watch some of those leafs/bruins series…”
A fifth fan wrote, “🇨🇦🏒Yep, that “You name it, he’s done it” comment is what is very concerning.. 😅😂🤣”
One fan mentioned, writing, “In Edmonton McDavid is” da man” this stamp of approval was given to his owners and front office so everyone is on the same page coming to training camp.”
A fan simply wrote, “Fired by February,” referring to Babcock.
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Edmonton is betting on experience over public perception
The Oilers’ decision followed a disappointing 2025-26 season. Edmonton finished 41-30-11 despite McDavid leading the NHL with 138 points. Defensive struggles and inconsistent goaltending contributed to a first-round playoff exit.
General manager Stan Bowman responded with sweeping changes. He replaced Kris Knoblauch, reshaped the roster, and turned to Babcock’s experience to maximize the championship window.
McDavid believes that experience matters more than outside criticism.
“With where our group’s at and what we’re looking for, he’s the perfect fit,” McDavid said. “He knows what he’s about as a coach, and it’s our job as players to be ready to go.”
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The Oilers clearly value Babcock’s résumé and ability to manage veteran teams. Whether that decision succeeds will depend less on offseason endorsements and more on how Edmonton performs once the regular season begins.
