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Former Oilers coach Woodcroft has bitter answer about team's playoffs
The dramatic turnaround of the Edmonton Oilers this playoff season presents a stark contrast to their earlier struggles.
Earlier in the season, the Oilers languished near the bottom of the NHL standings, which ultimately led to the dismissal of Coach Jay Woodcroft. Despite his popularity and previous success, the team's dire performance, highlighted by subpar goaltending and an overall slump, necessitated a change.Kris Knoblauch stepped in and swiftly rectified the situation, steering the team back on a winning path.
Woodcroft, in a recent interview, shared his current detachment from the Oilers.
He remarked.
»I haven't watched much of the Edmonton Oilers since I was let go in November. That was a choice I've made and I've spent more time studying the league. For me, I've spent a lot of time in this playoffs watching the Eastern Conference.»
This response suggests a mix of professional redirection and personal healing, distancing himself from a team he once hoped to lead to glory.
Woodcroft's departure was arguably a response to the ongoing issues with goalie Jack Campbell, among other team challenges. Although the decision was tough, it appears to have been the correct one, especially considering the Oilers' subsequent revival and impressive playoff performance.
This decision came in the wake of an embarrassing loss to the underperforming San Jose Sharks, which many saw as the last straw for his tenure.
Post-NHL, Woodcroft's career continues to flourish as he embraces a new role in international hockey. He will be joining Team Canada as an assistant coach at the upcoming IIHF games, working alongside head coach Andre Tourigny and fellow assistants Dean Evason and Steve Ott.
This position not only offers him a chance to return to the international stage but also to potentially rebuild his reputation for future NHL opportunities.
Looking ahead, Woodcroft's impressive coaching record of 79-41-13 should serve him well. With multiple teams, including the Seattle Kraken, New Jersey Devils, Los Angeles Kings, and Ottawa Senators actively searching for new coaching talent, Woodcroft remains a strong candidate for future NHL roles.
His experience and resilience in facing professional setbacks head-on will undoubtedly make him a valuable asset wherever he goes next.
| POLL | ||
April 30 | 503 answers Former Oilers coach Woodcroft has bitter answer about team's playoffs Is Jay Woodcroft likely to be hired as an NHL coach next season? | ||
| Yes, he'll be a head coach | 312 | 62 % |
| Yes, as an assistant | 91 | 18.1 % |
| No, he won't be hired | 66 | 13.1 % |
| See Results | 34 | 6.8 % |
| LIST OF POLL | ||
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