Kris Knoblauch, who led the Edmonton Oilers to a Stanley Cup Final appearance in the 2024–25 season, has announced his departure from the team. Knoblauch’s tenure began in November 2023, following the mid-season dismissal of Jay Woodcroft. Under Knoblauch’s leadership, the Oilers achieved a 46–18–5 record, securing a playoff berth and advancing to the Stanley Cup Final, where they narrowly lost to the Florida Panthers in a seven-game series.
Before joining the Oilers, Knoblauch served as head coach of the Hartford Wolf Pack, the New York Rangers’ AHL affiliate, from 2019 to 2023. His coaching career also includes successful stints with the Kootenay Ice and Erie Otters in the WHL and OHL, respectively, where he guided teams to multiple championships and earned Coach of the Year honors.
The Oilers organization has expressed gratitude for Knoblauch’s contributions and leadership during his tenure. A search for his successor will commence immediately, with the team aiming to build upon the progress made under Knoblauch’s guidance.