local
Edmonton Oilers hire Mike Babcock after NHL clears veteran coach following an investigation
By Associated Press at KPRC 2 / Click2Houston (NBC)
· June 23, 2026
· 5 min read
The Edmonton Oilers hired Mike Babcock on Tuesday, clearing the way for the polarizing taskmaster to coach his first NHL game in more than six years after the NHL cleared him following an investigation into his aborted 2023 stint in Columbus.Babcock is now in charge of trying to get Connor McDavi...
Key takeaway “He’s bringing experience and accountability," Oilers CEO of hockey operations Jeff Jackson said at the league’s Board of Governors meeting.
Why this matters in The Pearland
While the hiring of Mike Babcock as the new coach of the Edmonton Oilers may seem like a distant development to Pearland residents, the implications of his appointment can have a ripple effect on the local hockey community. As a city within the Houston area, Pearland is home to numerous hockey enthusiasts and families who participate in local leagues and follow NHL teams, including those with Texas connections. The controversy surrounding Babcock's coaching style and past behavior may spark conversations among local coaches, parents, and players about the importance of maintaining a positive and respectful team culture. Furthermore, the NHL's decision to clear Babcock despite criticism from former players may raise questions about the league's commitment to player welfare and accountability, issues that can resonate with Pearland's own sports communities and youth organizations.
About this story
Original reporting by KPRC 2 / Click2Houston (NBC) . The Pearland surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KPRC 2 / Click2Houston (NBC) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: June 23, 2026 ·
Source: KPRC 2 / Click2Houston (NBC) ·
Reading time: 5 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? The Edmonton Oilers hired Mike Babcock on Tuesday, clearing the way for the polarizing taskmaster to coach his first NHL game in more than six years after the NHL cleared him following an investigation into his aborted 2023 stint in Columbus.Babcock is now in charge of trying to get Connor McDavi...
When was this published? This article was first published on June 23, 2026 by KPRC 2 / Click2Houston (NBC) and curated for The Pearland readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Associated Press at KPRC 2 / Click2Houston (NBC). To learn more about how The Pearland selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The Pearland, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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