Report: Oilers’ Draisaitl says Mike Babcock will ‘hold guys accountable’

August 21, 2026 at 8:23 PM ET|Comments (0)

from Sportsnet,

If there are worries about Mike Babcock's ability to be an effective coach, they haven't reached the Edmonton Oilers star players.

In fact, Leon Draisaitl is welcoming the tough style of coaching for which Babcock is infamous.

“I think he's got a very clear plan, and I think he holds guys accountable, and I think to him, it's not about who it is when it comes to accountability, you know?” Draisaitl said to NHL.com at the European Player Media Tour on Friday.

The 30-year-old told reporters that he spoke to Babcock numerous times since he was hired in May and reiterated that the Oilers aren't concerned about the baggage that accompanies Babcock — their singular focus is to get back to competing for the Stanley Cup, whatever it takes.

[continued]