The Edmonton Oilers continue spiraling through one of their worst seasons in franchise history. The team sits near the bottom of the Pacific Division, with defensive breakdowns and goaltending issues plaguing them nightly.
Head coach Kris Knoblauch faces mounting pressure as the losses pile up. Speculation has intensified about whether Edmonton will make a coaching change if the struggles continue. One particular candidate has been frequently mentioned as a potential replacement.
The veteran coach has been out of work since being fired last summer. He recently addressed his future during a radio appearance.
Pete DeBoer Confirms He Wants To Return To NHL Coaching
Former Dallas Stars head coach Pete DeBoer joined SiriusXM NHL to discuss his current status. The 57-year-old bench boss hasn’t worked since Dallas dismissed him following their Western Conference Final appearance in June.
When asked about returning to coaching, DeBoer made his intentions clear. “I don’t think there’s any question I want to coach again,” DeBoer stated definitively. “I’ve enjoyed my time off, but the juices are flowing, and I would love to get back in and have an opportunity to win a Stanley Cup.”
The comments confirm DeBoer remains eager to return to the NHL rather than extend his sabbatical. The veteran coach has accumulated 662 career wins across stops with Florida, New Jersey, San Jose, Vegas, and Dallas.
His resume includes three consecutive Western Conference Finals appearances with the Stars. DeBoer’s name has surfaced in Edmonton speculation, given his availability and championship pedigree.
The Oilers need someone who can stabilize their defensive structure while maximizing their offensive talent. DeBoer has proven capable of both throughout his career.
However, hiring DeBoer wouldn’t come cheaply. The veteran coach would likely command a long-term, high-dollar contract given his track record. Edmonton would also need to buy out the remainder of Knoblauch’s deal, which runs through 2028-29.
Ownership might be reluctant to absorb both costs simultaneously. The Oilers also face questions about whether any coaching change can salvage their season. The roster construction issues extend beyond systems and deployment.
Goaltending remains historically bad regardless of who’s behind the bench. The defensive depth continues to lack impact players. DeBoer’s confirmation that he wants to coach again puts teams on notice that he’s available if they decide to make a change.
Whether Edmonton becomes that team depends on how much longer ownership tolerates the current trajectory. For now, Knoblauch remains the Oilers’ head coach while DeBoer waits by the phone. The veteran bench boss has made clear he’s ready to return whenever the right opportunity presents itself.