Babcock back in Toronto with Oilers to face Leafs

Mike Babcock returned to familiar surroundings as the head coach of the Edmonton Oilers, a team he coached in Toronto before being fired two months into his fifth season. The decorated and controversial coach, who had success with the Maple Leafs, signed an eight-year contract worth US$50-million to return to Toronto in 2015. However, the Maple Leafs finished last in his first season, and Babcock was dismissed in November 2019.

Since then, he has coached the Columbus Blue Jackets but resigned before taking the job following allegations of privacy violations.

Babcock returned to Edmonton in 2023, and his new team is currently sitting first in the Pacific Division and third overall in the league. The Oilers have started the season with a 20-game point streak, and Babcock has created a positive environment in the locker room. He emphasized the importance of caring for the people around him, which he believes is crucial for success.

McDavid, the team's star forward, praised Babcock for setting a high standard and bringing new energy to the team. Despite the positive atmosphere, Babcock acknowledged that his record speaks for itself, and the team has made the playoffs three out of the last four seasons under his leadership.