Who Is the Edmonton Oilers Head Coach?

The Edmonton Oilers advanced to the Stanley Cup Final in consecutive seasons, coming within a goal of breaking a Stanley Cup drought that dates back to 1990. 

Hired in November 2023, their head coach was instrumental in galvanizing the collective and turning things around. 

So, who is the Oilers’ head coach and what experience did he have when taking the helm in Alberta’s capital? 

Who Is the Edmonton Oilers Head Coach?

Kris Knoblauch is the Edmonton Oilers head coach. Knoblauch became head coach on Nov. 12, 2023, when the Oilers were at their lowest point. 

Despite being in charge for less than two seasons, he led the Oilers, who were consistently among the Stanley Cup odds favourites, to the Stanley Cup Final in consecutive seasons.

Knoblauch is known for his unwavering calmness and poise, maintaining a level head in the most stressful situations. 

While the Oilers represent his first NHL head coaching gig, Knoblauch is a vastly experienced bench boss, with his career dating back to his tenure as assistant coach of the Prince Albert Raiders in 2006-07. 

He was appointed head coach of the Kootenay Ice in 2010, his first head coaching role.

After coaching the Ice and the Erie Otters, Knoblauch was rewarded with his first NHL gig, serving as an assistant coach for the Philadelphia Flyers. 

After two seasons with the Flyers, Knoblauch became a head coach in the AHL for the first time, taking the reins of the Hartford Wolf Pack, where he remained until the Oilers came calling. 

What Is Kris Knoblauch’s Salary?

Knoblauch’s contract expires at the end of the 2025-26 season. 

However, the Oilers are expected to offer an extension. Knoblauch’s salary isn’t publicly known, but reports suggest that his predecessor, Jay Woodcroft, earned about $2 million in his final season.