'It's Bullsh*t' NHL Analyst Rips Apart The Edmonton Oilers Recent Controversial Move

PUBLICATION

Joshua Deeds
November 17, 2023 (10:06)

SHARE THIS STORY

In a recent interview with Ryan Rishaug's Got Yet Back podcast, NHL Insider Pierre LeBrun voiced his opinion on how the Oilers handled the Jay Woodcroft situation.

LeBrun on the podcast let the Oilers know that Woodcroft deserved more time with the team.

He was convinced that the Edmonton Oilers were ready to turn things around based on the numbers that underpinned the team shortly before Woodcroft was fired.

«I think it's bullshit that Jay Woodcroft was fired when he was. I think he should have been given more time. I think the under-lying numbers suggested a team that was about to turn it around. I do not believe he lost the room. The guys were still playing hard for him. And I would have given Jay Woodcroft more time. Now Kris Knoblauch may end up being the greatest Oilers coaching hire ever. Let's not take away from him. It might be unbelievable. And then people are going to go back and say, �Well, there you go. That was exactly the right move at the right time.' How do you know? How do you know if there's not another week of Woodcroft that the Oilers aren't on a run? I didn't like it. That's my opinion. I could be wrong.»

Unlike Jeff Jackson, he would have been more inclined to give Woodcroft more time before bringing in a new coaching staff. In addition, he complimented Kris Knoblauch, saying he may have been the best Oilers hire of all time.

The underlying issue was that Woodcroft was one of the best coaches the Oilers have had recently, and he led the team to the post-season twice.

He is right to say that the team handled his situation shortsightedly.

He has posted a 79-41-13 record since taking over for Dave Tippett in 2022, including a 6-6-0 post-season record. With a winning percentage of .665.