‘I am just horrified’: Mark Messier questions player role in Oilers’ Babcock hire

Former Edmonton Oilers captain Mark Messier voiced strong criticism over the team's decision to hire Mike Babcock as head coach. Speaking during an ESPN media call on September 23, Messier questioned the organizational process, specifically taking issue with players being directly involved in interviewing Babcock prior to his hiring.

Messier expressed concern regarding the lack of separation of powers between team leadership and management. Babcock joined the Oilers on June 23 after an NHL investigation found no basis to restrict his league employment following his 2023 departure from his previous role.