“Stan Could Have Made a Hell of a Deal”: Babcock Praises New Oilers D-Man

Edmonton Oilers coach Mike Babcock praised new defenseman Shakir Mukhamadullin following a strong preseason performance on Saturday night. Mukhamadullin arrived in Edmonton alongside Zack Sharp in a trade that sent Darnell Nurse to the San Jose Sharks. Babcock commended general manager Stan Bowman for executing the deal and expressed optimism that the 6-foot-5 defenseman could secure a regular role on the roster.

Babcock noted Mukhamadullin's size, skating, and decision-making while competing for roster spots against Spencer Stastney and Ty Emberson. The Oilers also secured Mukhamadullin on a two-year contract extension worth $1.75 million per season.