Edmonton has fired coach Kris Knoblauch before a lucrative extension is set to begin, eyeing high-profile replacements like Bruce Cassidy to salvage a closing championship window after a disappointing season.
Following days of speculation, the Edmonton Oilers have fired head coach Kris Knoblauch. According to a report by TSN's Ryan Rishaugh, (also confirmed by Darren Dreger), the Oilers are moving from their head coach prior to a three-year contract extension kicking in.
Assistant coach Mark Stuart has also been fired.
"Following a thorough review of this past season, we believe these changes are needed. We are grateful for the contributions both Kris and Mark have made to our organization and we wish them the best moving forward," said Stan Bowman, Executive Vice President of Hockey Operations and General Manager.
Rishaug notes, "Knoblauch was entering the first year of a new three year deal that paid him just north of 7.5m total." He adds, "Be interesting to see what’s next for him. Good candidate for any vacancy out there but also has the space to take some time to recharge."
For Knoblauch, there is no reason for him to hurry up and make a decision. With a guaranteed contract set to start on July 1, he's got as much time as he needs with financial security to pick his spot. The only worry would be that he gets lost in the shuffle if he sits too long. At the same time, executives and coaches make comebacks all the time, many after years away from the game.
Most of Wednesday was spent with speculation that an announcement would be coming from the organization. They've yet to release anything official. When they do, we'll sure to update this news, as well as provide any comments made from GM Stan Bowman or CEO Jeff Jackson.
As for who is brought in to replace Knoblauch, there are reports the Oilers reached out to the Vegas Golden Knights about Bruce Cassidy. That permission to speak with him was withheld, but it is believed he will get the chance to interview and is the frontrunner to join Edmonton.
Peter Laviolett is another potential option on the table.
The Oilers will be looking to find a coach who can push the right buttons for a team that has gotten close twice, but took a step backward in 2025-26. Their window to win is closing and the roster needs improving.
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