The Edmonton Oilers have made a significant decision regarding their coaching staff by extending head coach Kris Knoblauch’s contract for an additional three years, effective from the 2026-27 season. This move reflects the organization’s confidence in Knoblauch’s ability to lead the team to success in the coming years.
Kris Knoblauch’s Coaching Journey with the Oilers
At 47 years old, Knoblauch is set to enter the final season of the three-year contract he signed on November 12, 2023, after taking over the coaching duties from Jay Woodcroft. When he stepped into the role, the Oilers were struggling, holding a record of 3-9-1 and sitting in seventh place in the Pacific Division. However, Knoblauch quickly turned the team around, guiding them to achieve the NHL’s best record of 46-18-5 for the remainder of the regular season. This remarkable turnaround helped the Oilers secure a second-place finish in the Pacific Division and ultimately led them to the Stanley Cup Final, where they faced off against the Florida Panthers, narrowly losing in seven games.
Throughout his two seasons with the Oilers, Knoblauch has compiled an impressive record of 94 wins, 47 losses, and 10 overtime losses, showcasing his effectiveness as a head coach. Notably, he has led the team to the Stanley Cup Final in both years, with the previous season’s defeat also coming at the hands of the Panthers, albeit in six games. His playoff performance stands out as well, boasting a record of 29 wins and 18 losses across 47 playoff games, indicating his ability to perform under pressure.
Before joining the Edmonton Oilers, Knoblauch held the head coaching position with the Hartford Wolf Pack, the AHL affiliate of the New York Rangers, from 2019 to 2023. His coaching resume also includes a stint as an assistant coach with the Philadelphia Flyers from 2017 to 2019. Additionally, Knoblauch gained valuable experience coaching the Erie Otters in the OHL from 2012 to 2017, during which time he worked alongside current Oilers captain Connor McDavid for three seasons. As the Oilers move forward, the organization is hopeful that Knoblauch will continue to build on this success and lead the team to even greater heights in the NHL.