Former Oilers captain Mark Messier expressed strong criticism of the team’s decision to hire Mike Babcock, calling his reaction one of "horror." Just days later, forward Zach Hyman extended an invitation to Messier to witness the team’s operations firsthand under Babcock’s leadership, offering a chance to see the situation from a different perspective. The move comes amid ongoing debate over the coaching change and its potential impact on the franchise. Whether Messier accepts remains unclear, but the gesture signals an attempt to bridge the gap between veteran players and the new regime.

One day after Mark Messier said he was "horrified" by the Oilers' hiring of Mike Babcock, Edmonton forward Zach Hyman invited the Hall of Famer to see how the team is operating under the controversial coach's guidance.