Eduards Tralmaks signs with Edmonton Oilers: path to lineup goes through controversial coach Babcock

Latvian forward Eduards Tralmaks has received another opportunity in the National Hockey League (NHL). In July, he signed a contract with the Edmonton Oilers, giving him a chance to compete for a spot on the team's roster for the 2026/27 season.

However, the path to regular NHL play will go through one of the most controversial figures in hockey – head coach Mike Babcock. The Canadian took over the team in July, marking his first NHL coaching job since the fall of 2023, when his brief and scandal-ridden tenure with the Columbus Blue Jackets ended before the first official game.

Tralmaks commented on a widely reported story about Babcock, in which the coach allegedly told an AHL player: "This is great, isn't it? Enjoy – this is the last time you'll be on an NHL bench." This incident is one of several that have raised questions about Babcock's coaching style and treatment of players.

Tralmaks, who has previously played for several NHL teams, hopes to seize this opportunity and prove himself in Edmonton despite the complicated situation in the team's leadership.