BREAKING NEWS: Former Edmonton Oilers Head Coach Jay Woodcroft Who manage Edmonton of Alberta, Canada over three seasons and he won two division titles with Bakersfield Condors making him the Oilers Coach in Edmonton History, sent a message to Edmonton oilers current Head Coach Kris Knoblauch concerning…….

In an unexpected twist of events, former Edmonton Oilers head coach Jay Woodcroft—who helmed the team for three seasons and previously led the Bakersfield Condors to two division titles in the AHL—has publicly sent a message of both warning and encouragement to current Oilers bench boss Kris Knoblauch.

The message, released late Tuesday evening via Woodcroft’s official social media channels, addressed the challenges of coaching in a high-pressure market like Edmonton, referencing the intense expectations from fans, media scrutiny, and the weight of managing superstar talent.

“Coaching in Edmonton is like walking a tightrope over the North Saskatchewan River—with the whole city watching. But when you find the balance, it’s one of the most rewarding experiences in hockey,” Woodcroft wrote.

“Kris, you’ve taken on a team full of potential and pressure. Stay true to your system, trust your gut, and never let outside noise shake your foundation. The city lives for playoff hockey—deliver it, and you’ll be part of something unforgettable.”

Woodcroft, who was relieved of his duties in late 2023 after a slow start to the season, remains one of the most statistically successful coaches in recent Oilers history. Under his guidance, the team reached the Western Conference Final in 2022 and consistently contended in the Pacific Division.

The message has already sparked significant reaction across hockey media, with some interpreting it as a thinly veiled critique of the organization’s handling of his dismissal, while others see it as a sincere gesture of mentorship.

Knoblauch, who has taken the Oilers on a solid early-season run so far, responded diplomatically when asked about the message during a morning skate press conference.

“Jay’s a great coach and a guy I respect. We’re all part of the same hockey family, and I appreciate the words,” said Knoblauch. “But at the end of the day, we’re focused on the next game.”

Whether the message will serve as fuel or friction remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: Jay Woodcroft may be gone from the Oilers bench, but his legacy—and voice—still echo through Rogers Place.