Oilers notebook: What does Walman have to do to get back in Babcock’s good books?

“He sits down and meets with me today and we go through the whole process,” Babcock said Friday…

By Jim Matheson · Edmonton Journal

Published: Friday, 30 October 2026 at 8:34 PM

Key Things to Know

Jake Walman remains out of head coach Mike Babcock's lineup as the Edmonton Oilers' seventh defenseman.
Babcock stated that Walman must work hard, stay mentally tough, and meet with coaching staff to earn his spot back.
Shakir Mukhamadullin will skate alongside Ty Emberson on the third defensive pair against the New York Islanders.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Edmonton Oilers defenseman Jake Walman remains out of the lineup under head coach Mike Babcock, skating as the seventh defenseman during Friday's practice. Walman was paired with winger Max Jones and is set to sit out Saturday's game against the New York Islanders. Shakir Mukhamadullin will instead skate on the third defensive pairing alongside Ty Emberson.

Babcock emphasized the need for mental toughness and hard work, noting that he scheduled a meeting with Walman to address the situation. Jim Matheson reports that while Walman possesses offensive skill, his defensive awareness has fallen short of expectations set by Babcock and assistant coach D.J. Smith.

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Oilers notebook: What does Walman have to do to get back in Babcock’s good books?

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