Mike Babcock Returns to Toronto with Oilers to Face Maple Leafs

an older male ice hockey coach in a dark suit standing behind the bench at a large professional indoor ice arena with blurred blue and white seating in the back

AI-generated illustration; not a photograph of the reported event.

Mike Babcock Back at Scotiabank Arena

Mike Babcock made a notable return to Toronto, stepping onto the ice at Scotiabank Arena as the head coach of the Edmonton Oilers. Once again positioned at centre ice, whistle in hand, Babcock commanded his team during practice—a familiar scene for many in the arena, though under new circumstances.

Leading the Edmonton Oilers

Now twenty games into the season, Babcock finds himself at the helm of a talented Oilers squad led by superstar captain Connor McDavid. The team is in search of overcoming its playoff hurdles and contending for a championship under Babcock’s experienced guidance.

Reflecting on His Time with the Maple Leafs

Babcock’s visit to Toronto marked his first since being dismissed as head coach of the Maple Leafs two months into his fifth season in 2019. “Well, I loved it,” Babcock commented on Friday, standing near the location where he often held press conferences during his tenure. He reflected fondly on his first three years with the Leafs, emphasizing his positive experiences working with the team’s management and players. However, he noted, “I didn’t enjoy my last year-and-a-half as much, but that’s the business.”

Achievements and Challenges in Toronto

A native of Saskatoon, Babcock’s coaching resume includes a Stanley Cup victory with the Detroit Red Wings and guiding Team Canada to consecutive Olympic gold medals. He was appointed head coach of the Maple Leafs in 2015 after signing a high-profile eight-year, US$50-million contract.

Babcock’s first season in Toronto ended with the club at the bottom of the standings, which paved the way for the Leafs to select Auston Matthews with the first overall pick in the 2016 NHL Draft. Under his leadership, the Maple Leafs reached the playoffs in each of the following three seasons, but fell short of advancing past the first round—suffering two notable Game 7 losses to the Boston Bruins.

Departure from the Maple Leafs

The Maple Leafs began Babcock’s fifth campaign with a struggling 9-10-4 record. He was dismissed from his position on November 20, 2019, and replaced by Sheldon Keefe as Toronto’s head coach.

Babcock’s Coaching Legacy

Babcock’s return to Toronto, this time behind the Oilers’ bench, highlights his enduring presence in the NHL. As he aims to guide Edmonton through another competitive season, his reflections on his past success and challenges in Toronto remain a significant part of his coaching legacy.