The Edmonton Oilers have dismissed head coach Kris Knoblauch and assistant coach Mark Stuart from their positions. General manager Stan Bowman announced the decision on Thursday, citing the need for changes after a thorough evaluation of the team’s performance during the past season. The organization expressed gratitude for the contributions of Knoblauch and Stuart and wished them the best in their future endeavors.
No immediate replacement has been named for Knoblauch and Stuart following their departure. The decision to part ways with Knoblauch comes after a disappointing 2025-26 season that saw the Oilers eliminated in the first round of the Stanley Cup playoffs by the Anaheim Ducks in six games.
Knoblauch took over as head coach in November 2023, inheriting a struggling team that eventually turned its performance around under his leadership. Despite having star players like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, the Oilers faced challenges throughout the season, particularly in goaltending and defensive issues.
The team finished second in the Pacific Division but struggled defensively, allowing more goals than other playoff contenders. While the power play excelled, the penalty killing unit lagged behind. The Oilers started the playoffs strongly with a win over the Ducks but faltered in the subsequent games, leading to their early exit.
Both McDavid and Draisaitl expressed disappointment with the team’s performance and emphasized the need for significant improvements moving forward. Knoblauch, who previously coached McDavid in junior hockey, had a mixed record with the Oilers, achieving success in the regular season but facing challenges in the playoffs.
The organization is now in search of new coaching staff to lead the team in the upcoming seasons, aiming to address the shortcomings highlighted during the recent campaign.