This was the first season for the Edmonton Oilers under coach Kris Knoblauch that they didn’t go to the Stanley Cup Final.

But a first-round playoff loss, considering the team’s expectations, and their inconsistent play all season, has many wondering whether Knoblauch will get another opportunity.

Saturday was eventful, with the key players in the organization all doing exit interviews, some like Leon Draisaitl openly saying the franchise took a step back. When asked about Knoblauch’s job security, general manager Stan Bowman said everyone, including himself, were going to be evaluated.

At the end of Knoblauch’s 20-plus minute media availability, he was asked about whether he’s considered about his job.

“As a coach, I’m always preparing for the next day of coaching,” said Knoblauch. “I’m always getting prepared on how to make the team better, whether it’s next week, next month, or next year. I know the business this is and how times can change. But, yeah, that’s just the factor of being a head coach in the NHL is, it is what it is.” 

Before the season began, the Oilers extended Knoblauch for three years, taking to him to the 2028-29 season, but Bowman’s words were not a ringing endorsement, either.

Making player judgments sooner, giving players roles

If Knoblauch does return, he’ll get the chance to reflect on what went right and what went wrong.

He admitted this was a trying, frustrating season, where the Oilers as a group couldn’t find their “mojo.” The 2024-25 season he believed was similar, but the team found a way to playoff success, and Knoblauch was optimistic they........

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