Former Oilers Coach Announces New Gig
Jay Woodcroft's next coaching gig won't be behind the bench of an NHL team.
thehockeynews.comHere are the latest updates I can share about Jay Woodcroft based on recent reporting:
- In mid-2025, reports indicated Jay Woodcroft was set to join the Anaheim Ducks as an assistant coach, after being relieved as Oilers head coach in 2023. This marked a return to the NHL bench for him, with discussions around potential head-coach opportunities continuing in the background.[1][2]
- Earlier coverage noted Woodcroft’s involvement with Team Canada as an assistant coach during the 2024 IIHF World Championship, which represented a period focus outside the NHL bench before returning to league duties.[3]
- Subsequent outlets suggested Woodcroft remained a strong candidate for coaching roles and was widely discussed in various circles as teams explored head-coaching opportunities, with Ducks’ staff dynamics cited as a likely landing spot at the time.[6][8]
If you’d like, I can pull the most current articles and summarize any new developments, including any changes to his role with the Ducks or new candidate status for other NHL teams. I can also compile a quick timeline of his coaching career and notable promotions if that helps.