In a surprising announcement on Sunday morning, the Edmonton Oilers revealed significant changes to their coaching staff. Head Coach Jay Woodcroft and Assistant Coach Dave Manson have been relieved of their duties, and the team has appointed Kris Knoblauch as the new head coach.

Knoblauch, who was previously leading the American Hockey League's Hartford Wolfpack, will assume his new position immediately. Joining him on the bench will be former NHL defenseman, Paul Coffey, who will serve as an assistant coach.

The decision came after careful consideration by the Oilers' management, as they sought a change in leadership to bring about a new direction for the team. Woodcroft and Manson's departure marks the end of their tenure with the organization.

Knoblauch brings a wealth of coaching experience to the Oilers. Currently in his fifth season as the bench boss for the Hartford Wolfpack, the affiliate team of the New York Rangers, Knoblauch has led them to an impressive 7-3-1 record in their first 11 games of the season. His success in developing talented players has been evident throughout his coaching career.

Before his time in Hartford, Knoblauch spent two seasons as an assistant coach with the Philadelphia Flyers. Additionally, he enjoyed a championship-winning run as the head coach of the Erie Otters in the Ontario Hockey League during the 2016-17 season.

Playing a significant role in Knoblauch's journey is his experience guiding the Oilers' captain, Connor McDavid, during their time together in Erie. Knoblauch was instrumental in McDavid's development in the Ontario Hockey League, highlighting his ability to nurture young talents.

A native of Imperial, Saskatchewan, the 45-year-old Knoblauch had a successful playing career as a winger for the University of Alberta Golden Bears. After hanging up his skates, he embarked on his coaching career in 2006-07 as an assistant coach with the Western Hockey League's Prince Albert Raiders. He then went on to win a WHL title with the Kootenay Ice in the 2010-11 season before taking the reins as the head coach of the Otters in 2012-13.

The Edmonton Oilers organization is optimistic about the new coaching appointments and believes that Knoblauch's expertise and track record will help steer the team towards success. With Knoblauch's extensive coaching experience, along with the addition of Coffey, the Oilers are hopeful that this coaching change will provide the much-needed spark for the team's future endeavors.