Mike Babcock conducts first practice with Oilers after investigation conclusion
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 17, 2026, 9:29 PM
Last updated Sep 17, 2026
Mike Babcock led his first practice as head coach of the Edmonton Oilers on Thursday, featuring four hours of intensive skating and drills. Following an investigation into his conduct while with Columbus, Babcock aims to set a high standard for the team. Players noted the practice was detail-oriented, with an emphasis on speed and execution. Babcock expressed his commitment to helping the leadership group, including stars Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, pursue a championship. He plans to keep McDavid and Draisaitl on the same line as they were last season.
- •Babcock's practice included detail-oriented drills and emphasized fitness.
- •Players reported an intense atmosphere and focus on execution.
- •Investigation into Babcock's previous conduct has concluded.
- •He plans to keep McDavid and Draisaitl on the same line.
- •Babcock resigned from the Blue Jackets shortly after being hired.
- 9:29 PMYahoo Sports — Mike Babcock is back on the ice in Edmonton, and the pace left even him sore
"Mike Babcock had his first on-ice practice as head coach of the Edmonton Oilers on Thursday, and it was four hours of high-speed, detail-oriented skating and learning for both coach and players. “My feet hurt right now,” Babcock said afterward. Babcock was cleared to work for the Oilers following the league’s conclusion of an investigation into his conduct while with Columbus in 2023.
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