Leon Draisaitl has joined Connor McDavid in publicly backing new Edmonton Oilers head coach Mike Babcock. Speaking on the same day as his captain, Draisaitl expressed confidence that Babcock is the right coach to guide Edmonton back into Stanley Cup contention.
The Oilers hired Babcock on June 23 after firing Kris Knoblauch following a disappointing 2025-26 NHL season. The move sparked debate because of Babcock’s past controversies, but Edmonton’s leadership group has consistently defended the decision.
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Draisaitl pointed to his early conversations with Babcock as a major reason for his confidence.
“I think he’s the right guy to get us to where we want to get to,” he said.
He also appreciated Babcock’s direct communication, saying, “Obviously, it’s a different look, a change in personality, but very excited to learn from him, work with him.”
Draisaitl added that the veteran coach had been straightforward throughout their discussions, describing him as “very honest.”
Oilers’ leadership presents a united front
Draisaitl’s comments echoed McDavid’s message earlier that day. Edmonton’s captain emphasized Babcock’s championship experience rather than the controversy surrounding his return.
“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.
He continued by highlighting Babcock’s résumé.
“Who’s been successful, won Cups, gold medals, you name it, he’s done it,” McDavid said. “It’s a great opportunity for us players to be coached by somebody like him and learn from him.”
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Those comments matter because the Oilers’ core remains the driving force behind the franchise. Public support from McDavid and Draisaitl signals the dressing room has accepted the coaching change before training camp begins.
Edmonton now needs results, not reassurance
The Oilers are entering a pivotal season after finishing 41-30-11 and suffering a first-round playoff exit against Anaheim. Despite McDavid’s 138-point campaign, defensive inconsistency and unreliable goaltending prevented another deep playoff run.
General manager Stan Bowman responded with sweeping changes. Edmonton traded Darnell Nurse, added Frederik Andersen and Devon Levi in goal, and reinforced the blue line with Shakir Mukhamadullin, Ryan Shea, and Spencer Stastney. Associate coach DJ Smith also joined Babcock’s staff.
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Support from franchise stars gives Babcock an important foundation. Still, endorsements alone will not silence criticism. Edmonton assembled this roster to compete for the Stanley Cup immediately. If Babcock restores defensive structure and maximizes the league’s best players, the hiring will be judged by wins rather than headlines.
