Leon Draisaitl wants Mike Babcock to yell at him

The season is just around the corner. Training camps will open in just over three weeks, and the regular season kicks off on September 29. We're still waiting for the official announcement confirming that hockey will be back on TVA Sports, by the way.

It's not just the Canadiens and the Maple Leafs who will be in action on September 29. Four other games are on the schedule for this first day of the regular season, including one that will pit the Canucks against the Oilers in Edmonton.

Why am I interested in this game? Because it will mark Mike Babcock's debut behind the Oilers' bench.

Babcock coached in the NHL from 2002 to 2019, before becoming persona non grata in the league. Remember when he was hired by the Blue Jackets, only to be “let go” before he even coached his first game!

Mike Commodore and his buddies at Spittin' Chiclets had revealed cell phone stories that cost Babcock his job.

But Babcock is back in the NHL at age 63. He'll be coaching the Oilers… at the request of Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. At least that's the rumor going around in Alberta.

This morning, a few European players met with members of the media covering NHL activities, and Leon Draisaitl was, of course, asked about Babcock's arrival behind the bench. Basically, he confirmed his support for Babcock's hiring and his very old-school approach.

“He holds players accountable, no matter who they are, when it comes to accountability. Basically, we're looking for guidance. We're looking to improve. And sometimes, I deserve to get yelled at too, just like anyone else […] I think it's necessary sometimes. ” – Leon Draisaitl, who's had several discussions with his new head coach during the offseason

In short, Draisaitl is ready to be yelled at by his new coach. He thinks it will simply bring a different attitude and mindset.

While many people try to avoid that kind of behavior, Draisaitl is eager to experience it for himself.

“I think that's exactly what we need right now […] Everyone is really excited and looking forward to working with him.” – Leon Draisaitl

Draisaitl wants to win. He's signed a multi-year deal with the Oilers and hopes the team will be successful enough to convince Connor McDavid to sign his next contract in Alberta—and not in Calgary, hehe!

The German player tallied 97 points last season, then added 10 more in the playoffs. However, what he really wants is to win 16 playoff games. Just like Connor McDavid…

Will Mike Babcock be able to help Connor McDavid become a legend? I have my doubts, but I hope so…

Let's just hope the Oilers don't get the better of the Canadiens in the Stanley Cup Final!