Babcock faces former Leafs for first time as surging Oilers host Toronto

Edmonton coach Mike Babcock has announced he will face his former Toronto Maple Leafs team for the first time since his departure in November 2019. Babcock, who led the Oilers to an 8-1-and-1 record this season, downplays his past tenure with Toronto, joking that even the Beatles broke up and life goes on. During his time with the Maple Leafs, Babcock guided a young team that included Auston Matthews, William Nylander and Morgan Rielly, but Toronto's playoff failures under his leadership led to his dismissal.

Currently, the Oilers lead the Pacific Division, while the Leafs are fourth in the Atlantic Division after a three-game winning streak.