Edmonton Oilers Eyeing New Head Coach After Kris Knoblauch's Departure
4 intriguing Edmonton Oilers head coach targets
Image: Sporting News
Following a disappointing end to the 2025-26 NHL season, the Edmonton Oilers have fired head coach Kris Knoblauch. The team is now exploring potential replacements, including experienced candidates Bruce Cassidy and Craig Berube, as well as rising stars Manny Malhotra and David Carle, each bringing unique qualifications to the role.
- 01Bruce Cassidy, former head coach of the Vegas Golden Knights, is a strong candidate after leading his team to a Stanley Cup win in 2023.
- 02Craig Berube, confirmed as a candidate, has also won a Stanley Cup and is expected to be interviewed by the Oilers.
- 03Manny Malhotra, a former assistant coach, has experience leading teams to championships in the AHL and could bring a fresh perspective.
- 04David Carle, at just 36, has achieved significant success at the collegiate level with three NCAA titles since 2022 and is seen as a promising option.
- 05The Oilers are looking for a coach who can maximize their potential during their current Stanley Cup window.
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The Edmonton Oilers have parted ways with head coach Kris Knoblauch after a disappointing 2025-26 season that culminated in a first-round playoff exit against the Anaheim Ducks. As the team seeks a new head coach, several candidates have emerged. Bruce Cassidy, who recently led the Vegas Golden Knights to a Stanley Cup victory in 2023, is a front-runner, although the Oilers faced obstacles in interviewing him due to restrictions from his current team. Craig Berube, another Stanley Cup-winning coach, has been confirmed as a candidate and will be interviewed soon. On the other hand, Manny Malhotra, who has experience as an assistant coach and led the Abbotsford Canucks to a Calder Cup championship, represents a more unconventional choice. Lastly, David Carle, the successful head coach of Denver University with three NCAA titles since 2022, is also being considered as a potential fresh face for the Oilers. Each candidate brings unique strengths that could help the Oilers capitalize on their current competitive window.
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