The Edmonton Oilers announced that they have relieved head coach Jay Woodcroft and assistant coach Dave Manson of their duties effective immediately.
Following an abysmal 3-9-1 start to the season, the Oilers front office made the decision to bring in a new voice behind the bench. Hartford Wolf Pack head coach Kris Knoblauch, and hall of fame defenseman Paul Coffey will take over coaching duties, ending Woodcroft’s one and a half year tenure as head coach.
Prior to joining Edmonton, Woodcroft worked for the Detroit Red Wings as a video coach, and the San Jose Sharks as an assistant.
In their first full season under the 47 year old, Edmont posted the 4th highest points total in franchise history with 109 points, before bowing out to the eventual Stanley Cup champion Vegas Golden Knights in the 2nd round of the playoffs.
The 2023-24 season however was rocky from the get go, as the club lost 8-1 on opening night to Vancouver, followed by losses in 6 of their first 7 contests.
Joining the Oilers is 45 year old Kris Knoblauch, who previously coached reigning Hart Trophy winner Connor McDavid for 3 seasons in the OHL. A 7th round pick of the Islanders in 1997, Knoblauch is no stranger to Alberta having played several seasons with the U of A Golden Bears during his post secondary career. Assistant coach Paul Coffey is also well versed in the Edmonton culture having played the first 7 seasons of his professional career with the club in the early 80’s.
Edmonton is next in action Monday night against the New York Islanders in an 8:30pm ET showdown.
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