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Oilers’ Leon Draisaitl backs Mike Babcock’s tough approach after Jake Walman’s scratch
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- Oilers’ Leon Draisaitl backs Mike Babcock’s tough approach after Jake Walman’s scratch
Edmonton Oilers forward Leon Draisaitl has backed Mike Babcock 's demanding coaching approach after defenseman Jake Walman was made a healthy scratch.
Walman was a healty scratch in the game against Calgary Flames and is going to be scracted for another game against New York Islanders. Walman's situation has drawn attention to Babcock's emphasis on accountability. However, Draisaitl believes the NHL coach's approach reflects exactly what the players wanted from their leadership.
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Speaking about the team's standards, Draisaitl explained that nobody should receive special treatment.
" You're getting called out on whatever you're not doing right to help the team win. And we've asked for that, we need that, we wanted that, and we're getting it," Draisaitl said. "That's a good thing. I think we all understand within our group that no one is allowed to do anything more than anyone else, right?"
He acknowledged that star players might receive more freedom offensively. However, he stressed that everyone must follow the same team identity.
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"Yes, of course, your top-end guys, they might have a little bit of a longer leash when it comes to offense," Draisaitl said. "But at the end of the day, our identity and the way we play, we're all going to play the same way and we're all going to have the same mindset towards that.
"So he's very hard on that and that's the way we want it and the way it should be."
Draisaitl's comments suggest the Oilers' locker room supports that demanding environment. Edmonton needs consistent defensive performances to compete for the Stanley Cup.
Mike Babcock expects Jake Walman to respond through hard work
Anaheim, California, USA; Edmonton Oilers defenseman Jake Walman (96) mvoes the puck at Honda Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters)
Walman has struggled defensively during the opening stretch of the 2026-27 NHL season. He has as -7 rating and just 1 assist in his first nine games. So, his early performances have raised questions about his consistency following a seven-year, $49 million contract extension.
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Babcock has already explained how Walman could respond to being removed from the lineup.
" You're going to put your work boots on and you're going to get back to work, and you're going to feel good about working hard that day," Babcock said. "And then when you get prepared for your opportunity, when you get it, you're normally ready."
The coach also emphasized the importance of preparing for another opportunity rather than feeling sorry for yourself.
"I'm not trying to pretend life is fair, but I'm gonna say to you, embrace whatever you've been given and make it better," Babcock added.
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Walman's situation sends a clear message across the roster. Contract value and individual reputation will not guarantee anyone a place in Babcock's lineup. Now, his response in practice could determine how he earns another opportunity.
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