Babcock said Edmonton’s defensive mistakes came from poor teaching, not goaltending, after the Oilers allowed 13 goals in two games.
Coach Mike Babcock accepted responsibility for the Connor McDavid-led Edmonton Oilers' defensive struggles on Friday, citing the 13 goals allowed against the Vancouver Canucks in two games.
Goaltenders Tristan Jarry and Devon Levi faced only 21 Grade A shots yet surrendered 13 goals, prompting Babcock to attribute struggles to coaching rather than scapegoating the netminders.
Defenceman Jake Walman refused to blame the goalies, stating, "When you let in that many goals, it's a team thing for sure," and emphasized players must correct mistakes quickly.
Tactical errors in F3 coverage and pinching defencemen caused multiple breakaways and odd-man rushes, forcing Babcock to demand better organization when exiting the offensive zone.
Preparing for Saturday's game against the Seattle Kraken, coaching staff emphasized defensive play with specific focus on veteran Jake Walman and newcomer Shakir Mukhamadullin on the blue line.