Eyeing Cup, Oilers begin Mike Babcock era vs. rebuilding Canucks

The Edmonton Oilers open their season at home on Tuesday against the Vancouver Canucks, marking the start of Mike Babcock's tenure as head coach. Babcock replaced the fired Kris Knoblauch following Edmonton's first-round playoff exit last season against the Anaheim Ducks. Led by Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, Edmonton aims to return to championship contention under their new head coach.

Edmonton overhauled its roster during the offseason by trading Darnell Nurse, acquiring Ryan Shea and Shakir Mukhamadullin, and slating Tristan Jarry to start in goal. Meanwhile, the rebuilding Canucks enter the season with new management under co-presidents Henrik and Daniel Sedin, general manager Ryan Johnson, and newly appointed head coach Manny Malhotra.