The Edmonton Oilers’ coaching search remains on hold as the NHL continues its investigation into Mike Babcock’s actions in Columbus. Still, the veteran coach is still firmly in the conversation for one of hockey’s highest-profile jobs.

Babcock emerged as Edmonton’s preferred candidate after several coaching options disappeared. Former Vegas coach Bruce Cassidy was blocked from interviewing by the Golden Knights, while Peter Laviolette accepted the Los Angeles Kings job. That left the Oilers heavily focused on Babcock, whose potential return to the NHL remains tied to the league’s ongoing review.

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The investigation stems from Babcock’s brief tenure with the Columbus Blue Jackets in 2023. He resigned before coaching a game after allegations that he improperly asked players to show personal photos from their phones. The NHL Players’ Association pushed for a formal review when Edmonton began pursuing him again, and reports indicate the probe now includes additional allegations.

TSN insider Ryan Rishaug recently shared his view during an appearance on Oilers Now with Bob Stauffer.

“Bob, I just wanna clarify my position so I don’t get radioed here, okay? If Mike Babcock is legitimately changed, this might work,” Rishaug said. “I think it’s very fair, given what we saw between Toronto and Columbus, to be pretty skeptical that he has cause we’ve heard this stuff before. That’s my position.”

Edmonton Oilers need results, not more distractions

Edmonton Oilers center Connor McDavid (second from left) celebrates with teammates during the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images

Rishaug’s comment captures the central issue facing Edmonton. From a hockey standpoint, Babcock’s resume is difficult to ignore. The Oilers finished the 2025-26 season with a 41-30-11 record and ranked 25th in goals against despite boasting elite offensive talent. Improving defensive structure remains a priority, and that has traditionally been one of Babcock’s strengths.

However, the success of any Babcock hire depends entirely on trust. Reports indicate Connor McDavid and other core leaders “have had a voice in” Oilers’ pursuit of Babcock and gave management their support after discussing his past controversies. That endorsement carries weight inside the organization.

Still, the NHL must complete its investigation before Edmonton can move forward. Insider Elliotte Friedman recently reported that the league does not want the situation dragging on any longer.

“I had heard that the league wanted to deal with this pretty quickly,” Friedman said. “I think that they want to reach a ruling and don’t want this continuing any longer than it has to.”

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If the NHL clears Babcock and evidence shows meaningful personal growth, the fit could make sense for a team chasing a Stanley Cup. If doubts remain, Edmonton may be forced to pivot to alternative candidates and continue its search.