Oilers Dismiss Knoblauch Despite Two Straight Stanley Cup Final Trips

Edmonton Oilers part ways 
with head coach Kris Knoblauch  

The Oilers let go of Knoblauch on Thursday after a disappointing first-round exit, despite his 166-120 record and back-to-back Final appearances.

Edmonton has fired head coach Kris Knoblauch and assistant Mark Stuart following a first-round playoff exit against Anaheim...

Edmonton’s first-round playoff exit has cost Kris Knoblauch his job, ending his tenure despite back-to-back Stanley Cup Final appearances in the two seasons prior.

The Oilers confirmed the dismissal on Thursday and said assistant coach Mark Stuart will also depart. No replacement has been named yet.

Knoblauch started strong in Edmonton. He took over in November 2023 after Jay Woodcroft was fired and guided the Oilers to the playoffs in all three seasons that followed.

He won 166 of his 286 games behind the bench, but this season ended with a surprise first-round loss to Anaheim.

The Oilers have relieved Kris Knoblauch of his coaching duties.

— Ryan Rishaug (@TSNRyanRishaug) May 14, 2026

Knoblauch was due to start a new three-year deal this fall after signing it before the season, but instead becomes the sixth NHL coach fired this year.