It sounds like the Oilers are hiring Mike Babcock tonight

The Edmonton Oilers are reportedly in the process of hiring former NHL coach Mike Babcock, with NHL insider Elliotte Friedman confirming the news on June 9, 2026. Oilers owner Daryl Katz has personally met with Babcock, and Babcock has also spoken with several members of the team's leadership group to secure player buy-in. Some analysts speculate the news was strategically leaked by Katz to gauge fan and media reaction.