Hyman invites Messier to see Oilers' progress under Babcock

Edmonton Oilers forward Zach Hyman has invited Hockey Hall of Famer Mark Messier to see the team train under coach Mike Babcock, a day after Messier said he was "horrified" by Babcock's hiring.

Messier, a former Oilers captain and one of the franchise's most decorated players, had voiced strong criticism of the decision to bring in Babcock, whose tenure with previous teams has drawn controversy. Hyman's response framed the current atmosphere around the team differently, describing a "positivity" he said characterizes how the Oilers are operating under Babcock's guidance.

An open invitation

Hyman suggested that observing the team's day-to-day operations in person would give Messier a clearer picture of the environment Babcock has fostered since taking over, rather than relying on outside perception of the coach's past.

The exchange highlights the scrutiny facing Babcock's return to an NHL bench, given the circumstances that ended his most recent head coaching role. Messier's comments carry particular weight in Edmonton given his standing with the franchise, having captained the Oilers to a Stanley Cup title during his playing career.

Neither Messier nor the Oilers organization has indicated whether a visit to the team's facilities will take place. The team has not issued a further statement addressing Messier's remarks beyond Hyman's comments.

The situation adds another storyline to a season in which the Oilers' coaching change has already attracted significant attention from players, alumni and analysts across the league.