Mark Messier Voices Strong Opposition to Edmonton Oilers' Hiring of Mike Babcock
Hockey legend Mark Messier publicly criticized the Edmonton Oilers' recent decision to hire Mike Babcock as head coach, citing concerns over Babcock's past and the team's unusual hiring process involving player interviews.
On September 23, 2026, during the ESPN NHL Opening Night media call, hockey icon Mark Messier expressed profound disapproval with the Edmonton Oilers' recent appointment of Mike Babcock as their head coach. Messier stated his shock and unease regarding the hiring, emphasizing troubling stories he had heard from credible sources about Babcock’s previous conduct. [1]
Babcock’s hiring has reignited controversy due to his prior resignation from the Columbus Blue Jackets in 2023 amid allegations of inappropriate interactions with players—specifically, requests for personal photos from their phones. An NHL Players’ Association investigation ultimately cleared Babcock to resume coaching, but questions about the appropriateness of his return continue to simmer within parts of the hockey community. [2]
Messier also criticized the Oilers’ unconventional decision-making process in bringing Babcock aboard. He highlighted the involvement of team players in interviewing Babcock, describing this approach as unprecedented and expressing skepticism about the wisdom of allowing players to have such a direct role in vetting the head coach. [1]
These comments shed light on ongoing debates concerning Babcock's coaching style and legacy, as well as the procedural norms NHL teams follow when hiring for key leadership roles. There remains uncertainty about how this controversial appointment will impact the Oilers’ locker room dynamics and broader reputation in the league. [1][2]