NHL Insider Exposes The True Reason Why Jay Woodcroft Was Fired by The Edmonton Oilers

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Skyler Walker
November 13, 2023 (11:30)

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New Beginnings in Edmonton

The Edmonton Oilers are on the brink of a fresh era as they prepare for their upcoming game with recently appointed head coach Kris Knoblauch. However, the unexpected departure of Jay Woodcroft over the weekend has left the coaching transition under a cloud of uncertainty.

Insights from the Inside

Delving into the enigma surrounding Woodcroft's exit, NHL insider Elliotte Friedman shared his perspective on a Monday podcast. Friedman clarified that Woodcroft's coaching prowess wasn't the key factor; instead, the coaching change stemmed from the Oilers' urgent need to steer clear of a potential disastrous season.

"This coaching change wasn't about Jay Woodcroft," Friedman emphasized on the 32 Thoughts podcast. "It was about Edmonton avoiding a disastrous season, so what can we do to turn things around?"

Addressing whispers of a player-led rebellion, Friedman rejected the notion, attributing Woodcroft's departure to Oilers CEO of hockey operations, Jeff Jackson.

"In the end, Jeff Jackson made the call," Friedman stated. "The fact that Kris Knoblauch is the new coach tells me it was Jackson's decision. I don't think the players ousted Jay Woodcroft; I don't believe that."

Friedman's viewpoint, grounded in the enduring connection between Knoblauch and Jackson, implies that the orchestrator of the coaching change was the Oilers' CEO, not general manager Ken Holland. He also hinted at a potential shift in power within the Oilers' front office, especially with Ken Holland's contract nearing its conclusion.

"Holland brought in Woodcroft, and it looks like there's a changing of the guard,"

Friedman finished the statement with that.