The Edmonton Oilers have let go of Kris Knoblauch, and GM Stan Bowman is quick to make calls. On Friday, Chris Johnston revealed that Bowman has chatted with Craig Berube about the job opening.
This is a significant move, and it shows Bowman’s mindset clearly. He isn’t interested in developing someone; he wants someone who can get the job done.
Edmonton wrapped up the season with a record of 41 wins, 30 losses, and 11 overtime losses, earning 93 points, which put them second in the Pacific Division. By the numbers, it looks like they should have made the playoffs. However, for Edmonton, given this team, it was a mess.
The Oilers ended the season on a high note, winning 6-1 against the Vancouver Canucks. This was Knoblauch’s last game as a coach. A win and a farewell happened in the same week.
Just because there was a report about a call between Bowman and Berube doesn’t mean a hiring will happen. There are rules about permission, tampering, and contracts that come into play with the news from Chris Johnston. But they did talk.
The report itself was straightforward. Johnston made it clear during his podcast, with no uncertainty.
For Oilers fans, the important part isn’t just the name of Berube. It’s the level of the candidate. Bowman didn’t just look for a regular assistant or a recycled coach; he aimed for someone who has won a championship.
Time is running out for McDavid and the Oilers. The person who takes this coaching job will have a ticking clock on contracts, an impatient fan base, and a GM who just showed he’s ready to act quickly.
What happens next will reveal everything.
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