DEAL ACCEPTED: Excitement Hit rogers place stadium as former edmonton oilers head coach Todd McLellan returned to his former team as a senior coaching….

In a stunning move that has reignited passion and nostalgia across Oil Country, former Edmonton Oilers head coach Todd McLellan has officially returned to the franchise—this time in a new role as Senior Coaching Advisor. The announcement was made early Sunday morning by Oilers General Manager Ken Holland, confirming weeks of speculation surrounding McLellan’s involvement in the organization’s long-term strategy.

The news was met with overwhelming excitement at Rogers Place Stadium, where fans gathered for the team’s annual summer development camp. Chants of “Welcome back, Todd!” echoed through the stands as the announcement was broadcast on the jumbotron, marking a significant reunion between the Oilers and the man who helped guide them through a transitional and foundational era from 2015 to 2018.

A Homecoming Years in the Making

Todd McLellan, now 57, spent three seasons as head coach of the Oilers from 2015 to 2018, steering the club through the crucial early years of Connor McDavid’s career. Under McLellan, the Oilers made a memorable run to the second round of the 2017 Stanley Cup Playoffs, ending a decade-long playoff drought and reigniting hope among a passionate fanbase.

Though his tenure ultimately ended in 2018 due to inconsistent results, many in Edmonton continued to view McLellan as a stabilizing force who helped shift the culture and structure of a struggling franchise.

“There’s a reason we call this a reunion, not just a hire,” said GM Ken Holland in a press conference. “Todd helped lay the foundation that the current success is built on. His hockey IQ, mentorship ability, and experience are second to none. Bringing him back in an advisory role was an easy decision.”

McLellan’s New Role: What Is a Senior Coaching Advisor?

In his new capacity, McLellan will not be behind the bench, but he will work closely with head coach Kris Knoblauch, the coaching staff, and the front office on a wide range of strategic areas, including:

• Player development
• In-game tactical analysis
• Leadership mentoring
• Prospect evaluations and scouting collaboration
• Coaching mentorship across the AHL affiliate Bakersfield Condors

Holland was clear that McLellan will not interfere with day-to-day coaching duties but will serve as a “second set of eyes”—especially valuable during playoff preparation and in critical decision-making moments.

“We don’t see this as a move that changes leadership—it strengthens it,” said Holland. “Kris is our coach, and he’s doing a great job. Todd’s just another elite mind in the room.”

McLellan’s First Words Since Return

McLellan, who had remained largely quiet since his departure from the Los Angeles Kings in 2024, expressed gratitude and eagerness to return to the Oilers family.

“Edmonton has always felt unfinished for me,” McLellan said. “I never stopped watching, never stopped rooting. I’m honored to be back. This team has grown tremendously, and I’m here to offer whatever I can to help them lift that Cup.”

He continued, “I’ve coached in many great markets, but the passion in Edmonton is unmatched. I’m excited to reconnect with the players, the staff, and most importantly, the fans.”

Fan Reactions: “The Right Move at the Right Time”

Within minutes of the announcement, Oilers social media channels were flooded with positive responses. Hashtags like #McLellanReturns and #OilersFamily began trending across Canada.

Tamara Gibbons, a longtime Oilers fan from St. Albert, shared her reaction on X (formerly Twitter):

“You could always tell McLellan cared deeply about the team. Having him back in the fold is like welcoming home a long-lost uncle. This is a great move by Holland.”

Dylan Paquette, a season ticket holder for over 20 years, said outside Rogers Place:

“With the window to win NOW, this team needs every bit of experience and insight possible. Bringing in someone who knows the city, the pressure, and the players is a masterstroke.”

What This Means for the Oilers’ Future

Coming off back-to-back Western Conference Finals appearances and with a roster stacked with talent—led by superstars Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and Evan Bouchard—the Oilers are in full championship mode.

But the road has not been easy. Questions about roster depth, coaching tactics, and playoff resilience have haunted the team. By bringing in a veteran like McLellan, the Oilers are signaling that no stone will be left unturned in their pursuit of a Stanley Cup.

Head coach Kris Knoblauch, who took over mid-season in 2024, welcomed McLellan with open arms.

“Todd brings a level of wisdom that few others possess. I’m thrilled to work alongside him and tap into his knowledge. At the end of the day, we’re all working toward the same goal—bringing a Cup to Edmonton.”

A Reunion With Familiar Faces

McLellan’s return also means he will reunite with several players he helped develop, including Connor McDavid and Darnell Nurse. Reports suggest that McDavid, now the team captain and face of the NHL, was consulted before the decision was finalized.

“Todd played a huge role early in my career,” McDavid said in a team statement. “He helped shape my approach to the game and taught me how to lead. I’m happy to have him back around the club.”

Final Thoughts: Full Circle

For Todd McLellan, this return marks a full-circle moment in a career defined by resilience, intellect, and understated leadership. From his early days as an assistant with the Detroit Red Wings to head coaching jobs with San Jose, Edmonton, and Los Angeles, McLellan has seen the highest highs and endured the toughest lows.

Now, as he steps into a new advisory role with the team that still holds a special place in his heart, he is poised to help guide the Edmonton Oilers through what could be their most important chapter in decades.