​The NHL’s upcoming season has already generated controversy in Edmonton, with six-time Stanley Cup champion Mark Messier strongly criticizing the Oilers’ decision to hire Mike Babcock as their new head coach.Messier, one of the greatest players in Oilers history, said he was “just horrified” by the decision and added that he was “absolutely shocked they hired him.” The Hockey Hall of Famer also referenced reports from reputable sources concerning Babcock’s character and his treatment of people during his NHL career.MORE: Islanders reveal incredible new food item that you’ll want to try yourselfBabcock returns to the NHLFormer hockey player Mark Messier at Las Vegas Strip Circuit. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn ImagesBabcock, 63, was hired by Edmonton in June, replacing Kris Knoblauch. Knoblauch had coached the Oilers for three seasons and guided the team to back-to-back Stanley Cup Finals.Babcock’s hiring comes after a controversial end to his time with the Columbus Blue Jackets. He resigned before the beginning of the 2023-24 season amid allegations concerning players’ personal cell phones. An NHL investigation requested by the NHL Players Association subsequently cleared Babcock.Despite the controversy surrounding his recent coaching history, Babcock brings an extensive résumé to Edmonton. He owns a regular-season career record of 700-418-164, along with 19 ties.MORE: Maple Leafs star Auston Matthews disrespected by NHL NetworkA coach with an extensive résuméBabcock has also enjoyed considerable international success. He coached Team Canada’s men’s hockey team to Olympic gold medals in 2010 and 2014. He also guided Canada to gold at the 1997 IIHF World Junior Championship, the 2004 Men’s World Hockey Championship and the 2016 World Cup of Hockey.His return to an NHL bench will officially begin on Sept. 29, when the Oilers host the Vancouver Canucks in their 2026-27 regular-season opener.The game will mark Babcock’s first NHL appearance behind the bench since the Toronto Maple Leafs fired him in November 2019.For Edmonton, the appointment represents the latest chapter in an organization looking to return to the Stanley Cup Final after consecutive appearances. For Messier, however, the decision has raised serious concerns.The former Oilers captain’s comments add a significant voice to the debate surrounding Babcock’s return, particularly given Messier’s history with the franchise and his six Stanley Cup championships.– Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories with The Big Lead Newsletter –