As the Oilers approach the Olympic break, many people are talking about possible changes to the coaching team, especially the idea of bringing back Paul Coffey.
Coffey is a legendary figure for the Oilers and was part of the coaching team for the last two seasons, where he did a great job improving the team’s defense. Since the team is currently struggling and Draisaitl has questioned the coaching, many think Coffey should come back to help the defense improve.
NHL experts have different opinions about what might happen with Paul Coffey and the Oilers. On the latest episode of the Big Show, NHL insider Frank Seravalli mentioned that there’s a good chance the Oilers will make changes during the Olympic break, including Coffey returning to manage the defense.
Frank Seravalli: Re Oilers: I think it’s a very strong possibility that they do make a change to their coaching staff and that Paul Coffey is brought back to run the defense; the break is sort of that perfect time to make that change – Big Show (2/6)
— NHL Rumour Report (@NHLRumourReport) February 8, 2026
This goes against what Elliotte Friedman said in his latest 32 Thoughts Blog, where he suggested that the idea of Coffey coming back might not be welcomed by everyone involved.
I’m not sure if he was referring to the team’s preparation or their spirit, but some local experts are speculating that the team might put Paul Coffey back on the coaching bench because he could bring a needed toughness. Earlier this season, when I asked about this, I was told no. So, do all the people involved really want this to happen?
– Elliotte Friedman
Oilers fans.
Who do you think is right?
Elliotte Friedman that Coffey doesn’t come back.
Or
Frank Seravalli that Coffey does come back.#LetsGoOilers #Oilers #YEG #Hockey #NHL pic.twitter.com/wGqOj5RAbX
— Bleed Oil Blue (@BleedOilBlue) February 8, 2026
So, we have two different stories from NHL insiders: one saying Coffey is coming back and another doubting it. At least we know that the Oilers’ management is considering this option. We’ll find out what goes down in the next few weeks when the Olympic break ends, but changes in the coaching staff are definitely likely.
After what Leon Draisaitl said, it’s clear the coaching team needs to rethink their strategies or they could end up driving their players away with their current ineffective approach.
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