Edmonton Oilers head coach Mike Babcock gives instructions during the morning skate during training camp at Rogers Place in Edmonton on Thu Sep 17, 2026 (AP News photo)

NHL podcast Len Shapiro:

#1 Len, talk about Edmonton Oilers head coach Mike Babcock who was just hired but had been accused of verbal attacks on some of his former players. ESPN studio analyst Mark Messier said that he heard from reputable people on the inside of the NHL that Babcock was abusive and Messier said some of the stories horrifying.

#2 Len, You might remember him George Gillet Jr the former majority owner of the Montreal Canadiens and part owner of Liverpool FC died at 87 years old. No cause of death was given. Gillett on Jan 31, 2001 bought a majority of the Habs and also bought the Belle Centre worth $275 million at the time. June 20, 2009 Gillet sold the team to the Molson family.

#3 ASU head coach Greg Powers answered questions for the first time since St Louis Blues prospect Matthew Mayich collapsed last month on Aug 20th during an off season workout. Powers said he’s the right guy for the job and on Sep 20th never addressed Mayich with the press. Mayich was reported to suffer from heat stroke that cut off oxygen to the brain and unlikely will not recover.

#4 The NHL board of governors said they will wait and see regarding finding two expansion teams.The NHL is considering adding a second NHL team in Dallas. Other options expanding to Houston and Austin.

#5 Lastly Len who do you like as the Stanley Cup contenders, the top challengers who you favor for a shot at going all the way and winning the Stanley Cup. Just an early preview for the 26-27 season.

Join Len Shapiro for the 2026-27 NHL podcast at http://www.sportsradioservice.com