Edmonton Oilers coach Mike Babcock is enforcing strict accountability early in the 2026-27 season. After scratching forward Trent Frederic, Babbench defenseman Jake Walman for back-to-back games following reduced ice time. Walman, who has a team-worst minus-7 rating and just one point, sat out the loss to Detroit and the 4-0 shutout win over Calgary.
Veterans like Mattias Ekholm and Leon Draisaitl support the move, emphasizing that players must earn their spot. Babcock, hired to replace Kris Knoblauch after a first-round exit last spring, is building a culture of accountability. "It sends a message that you've got to be on your game every night," Ekholm said. Walman, a veteran who was part of the Oilers' Stanley Cup final run in 2025, understands the message but needs to improve to reclaim his spot.
The team faces the New York Islanders on Saturday.
Source: ESPN NHL · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing