League: NHL Sport: Hockey Country: United States Category: Coaching

Messier criticizes Oilers for hiring Babcock as head coach

3 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 24, 2026, 3:12 PM

Last updated Sep 24, 2026

Messier criticizes Oilers for hiring Babcock as head coach

Summary

Mark Messier expressed his disapproval of the Edmonton Oilers’ recent decision to hire Mike Babcock as head coach. Messier, a Hall of Fame player with the Oilers, described his reaction as "horrified" amid Babcock's controversial history in coaching. The appointment raises questions among Oilers fans about the future direction of the team, especially considering Babcock's past with different franchises. The Oilers are expected to officially introduce Babcock in the coming days.

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Status Watch

•Mark Messier criticized the Oilers for hiring Mike Babcock.
•Messier is a Hall of Fame player with the Oilers.
•He described his feelings about the hire as 'horrified'.
•Babcock has a history of controversy in coaching.
•The Oilers plan to introduce Babcock officially soon.

Latest Updates

3:12 PMYahoo Sports — 6-time Stanley Cup champion Mark Messier rips Mike Babcock & Oilers
10:18 PMESPN — Messier 'horrified' by Oilers' hire of Babcock as coach

What they're saying

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Former NHL star Mark Messier, who had a Hall of Fame career with the Edmonton Oilers, said he's "horrified" by the team's hiring of controversial head coach Mike Babcock.
— ESPNby Greg Wyshynski