Mike Babcock prepares to face former Toronto Maple Leafs team

Edmonton Oilers head coach Mike Babcock is set to face his former team, the Toronto Maple Leafs, this Saturday. Reflecting on his departure from Toronto in 2019, Babcock remarked that life goes on, comparing the transition to the breakup of the Beatles.

Babcock expressed pride in developing young players during his tenure with the Maple Leafs, including Auston Matthews, William Nylander, and Morgan Rielly, despite acknowledging the team's playoff failures.

Currently, the Oilers lead the Pacific Division with an 8-1-1 record, while the Maple Leafs hold a 6-4-2 record and are on a three-game winning streak.

Separately, former colleague Justin Bourne has defended Babcock regarding a past controversy involving staff cellphones. Bourne, who worked with Babcock in the Toronto organization, suggested the coach's request to view photos was an attempt to get to know staff and players personally rather than having malicious intent.