The Edmonton Oilers have made a significant coaching change as they announced on Sunday the firing of head coach Jay Woodcroft and assistant coach Dave Manson. This decision comes as a result of the team's poor performance this season, with a 3-9-1 record, tied for the second-worst in the NHL.

Woodcroft, who took over for Dave Tippett in February of 2022, had a successful run with the Oilers, leading them to a 79-41-13 record, which stands as the fifth-best coaching record in the NHL over that period. However, the team's recent struggles, losing eight of their last 10 games, prompted the franchise to make a change.

One of the main reasons for Woodcroft's dismissal is attributed to the team's difficulties in the neutral and defensive zones. The systems changes implemented by the coaching staff did not yield the desired results, as the Oilers struggled with leaking rush chances and their goaltenders faced challenges in stopping them. The hope was that these adjustments would improve the team's defense, particularly in playoff situations. Instead, the Oilers find themselves in a deep hole that may be difficult to climb out of.

Further contributing factors to Woodcroft's departure are the team's league-worst save percentage and the second-worst shooting percentage at five-on-five. These statistics make it challenging for the team to secure victories, highlighting the need for a change in coaching leadership.

Replacing Woodcroft on an interim basis will be Kris Knoblauch, the head coach of the Hartford Wolf Pack. Knoblauch has a previous connection with Oilers star Connor McDavid, having coached him during their time together with the Erie Otters in the OHL. Knoblauch's reputation as an up-and-coming coach in NHL circles makes him an intriguing choice to lead the team. He becomes the fifth head coach for the Oilers during McDavid and Leon Draisaitl's era, following Woodcroft, Tippett, Ken Hitchcock, and Todd McLellan.

Joining Knoblauch as an assistant coach in Edmonton will be Paul Coffey, a former NHL player with extensive experience but no prior coaching experience. Coffey will serve as eyes and ears for team owner Daryl Katz.

The decision to replace Woodcroft raises questions about the role of general manager Ken Holland. Although Holland retains the title of general manager, it appears that these recent moves signal a transition of power, as CEO of hockey operations Jeff Jackson's influence becomes more apparent. This raises speculation about Holland's future with the team as his contract reaches its final months.

The Edmonton Oilers' decision to fire Jay Woodcroft and Dave Manson reflects the team's dissatisfaction with their current performance and a desire to take steps towards improvement. The interim leadership of Kris Knoblauch, alongside the addition of Paul Coffey, aims to rejuvenate the team and hopefully guide them to better results as the season progresses.

Note: The names and positions mentioned in the news article are factual. The details provided about Ken Holland's involvement and future with the team are speculative based on the context given.