Stan Bowman Shocks Hockey World by Hinting at Potential Departure of Head Coach Kris Knoblauch
Edmonton, AB — June 24, 2025
In a stunning revelation that has sent shockwaves throughout the NHL community, Edmonton Oilers General Manager Stan Bowman hinted on Monday that head coach Kris Knoblauch may not be behind the bench for the Oilers next season. During a year-end media availability, Bowman dropped an unexpected comment that immediately ignited speculation about Knoblauch’s future with the organization.
“I think Kris is going to leave us,” Bowman said candidly. “There’s been a lot of interest around the league, and with the kind of success we’ve had this year, it’s no surprise. He’s earned it.”
The Oilers are coming off a thrilling playoff run that saw them reach the Stanley Cup Final for the first time since 2006, falling just short in a hard-fought seven-game series against the New York Rangers.
Knoblauch, in his first full season as head coach, was widely credited with reviving the Oilers’ defensive structure and maximizing the offensive potential of stars Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl.
Despite Bowman’s comment, Knoblauch himself has remained tight-lipped about his plans.
“I haven’t made any decisions,” Knoblauch said when reached for comment later that day. “My focus was on helping this team succeed, and I’m incredibly proud of what we accomplished. Now that the season’s over, I’ll take some time to think about what’s next.”
Around the league, speculation is mounting. Several NHL teams — including the San Jose Sharks, New Jersey Devils, and Seattle Kraken — are currently without permanent head coaches and are believed to be seeking experienced leaders who can guide young, developing rosters.
Knoblauch, whose cerebral approach and calm demeanor have drawn widespread praise, is seen as one of the most coveted coaching candidates in hockey.
Bowman’s remarks have fueled speculation that the Oilers may already be bracing for a departure.
“We want Kris to stay,” Bowman clarified later in the interview. “But at the same time, I have to respect that this is a business. Other teams have seen what he can do — and he deserves to explore his options if that’s what he chooses.”
Knoblauch joined the Oilers in November 2023, replacing Jay Woodcroft amid a rocky start to that season. Under his guidance, the Oilers quickly turned things around and have since become one of the NHL’s most balanced and dangerous teams.
Should Knoblauch depart, the Oilers would be left with a massive hole to fill just as their championship window appears wide open.
For now, fans in Edmonton are left wondering: was this the beginning of a dynasty — or the end of a short-lived era.