Former Oilers Coach Jay Woodcroft Finds Stability at Last, Joins Anaheim Ducks After Two Frustrating NHL Hiring Cycles

Jay Woodcroft can finally exhale.

After months of uncertainty, countless interviews, and what many hockey insiders labeled as one of the most puzzling job-hunting stretches in recent memory, the former Edmonton Oilers head coach is officially returning to the NHL — this time, as part of the Anaheim Ducks coaching staff. For Woodcroft, it’s not just a new job; it’s a lifeline back into the league that, for the last two seasons, seemed to repeatedly shut the door on him despite his impressive résumé.

The Ducks announced the hiring earlier this week, confirming that Woodcroft will serve as an associate coach under Anaheim’s head coach Greg Cronin. The move marks Woodcroft’s first NHL role since his abrupt dismissal from the Oilers early in the 2023-24 season — a decision that, in hindsight, remains controversial among both analysts and fans.

For Woodcroft, the opportunity is about more than just filling a vacancy; it’s about proving his worth, reigniting his passion for the game, and showing the NHL world that his coaching acumen still belongs behind the bench at hockey’s highest level.

“It’s been a humbling process,” Woodcroft admitted during his introductory press conference. “You spend your whole life in hockey — first as a player, then as a coach — and when you get let go, especially after some success, it makes you pause. But I never lost faith in my abilities or my love for this sport.”

The hockey world certainly hasn’t forgotten what Woodcroft accomplished in Edmonton. Stepping into the Oilers head coaching role midway through the 2021-22 season, he immediately made an impact. Under his leadership, the Oilers surged, reaching the Western Conference Final for the first time since 2006. Known for his detailed systems, calm demeanor, and player-friendly approach, Woodcroft guided superstars like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl while fostering depth development within the roster.

The following year, Edmonton remained a contender, though playoff heartbreak once again haunted the franchise. But few expected Woodcroft to be shown the door just weeks into the 2023-24 campaign, especially after his 79-41-13 regular-season record as the Oilers’ bench boss.

His firing, viewed by many as a scapegoat move amid Edmonton’s early struggles, left Woodcroft surprisingly on the outside looking in. Despite interviewing with multiple teams across two hiring cycles — including rumored interest from the Seattle Kraken, New Jersey Devils, and Ottawa Senators — the offers never materialized. Some insiders speculated that front offices sought more experienced, veteran names, while others pointed to the cyclical nature of NHL hiring trends.

Meanwhile, Woodcroft maintained a low profile, reportedly focusing on professional development, spending time with family, and analyzing the game from a distance. But patience has finally paid off, with the Ducks extending an olive branch at a crucial moment in both their rebuild and his coaching journey.

For Anaheim, the hire represents a shrewd addition to a young, developing coaching staff. The Ducks, coming off another difficult season near the bottom of the standings, have made it clear they want to accelerate their rebuild, and Woodcroft’s reputation for nurturing young talent fits perfectly into that blueprint.

“Jay brings a wealth of experience, a proven ability to develop players, and a fresh perspective to our bench,” said Ducks General Manager Pat Verbeek. “We’re building something here in Anaheim, and we believe Jay’s presence will only strengthen our group as we take the next steps.”

Indeed, Anaheim’s roster is brimming with promise. From budding star Trevor Zegras to rising talents like Mason McTavish, Jamie Drysdale, and Leo Carlsson, the Ducks have a core capable of becoming a playoff threat — provided they can translate potential into consistent performance. Woodcroft’s track record suggests he could be instrumental in facilitating that transformation.

During his time with Edmonton, Woodcroft was praised for improving structure without stifling creativity — a balance crucial for a Ducks squad that, at times, has leaned heavily on offensive flair but struggled defensively. His time spent previously as an assistant coach with the San Jose Sharks and Oilers, as well as his success leading Edmonton’s AHL affiliate in Bakersfield, further cement his reputation as a coach who understands how to develop prospects and elevate team play.

For Woodcroft, the Anaheim opportunity represents more than just a stepping stone. It’s a reset, but one that keeps him in the NHL spotlight. In recent years, several associate coaches have parlayed such roles into head coaching jobs — notably, Andrew Brunette with Nashville and Spencer Carbery with Washington. Though Woodcroft is adamant his focus is entirely on helping the Ducks succeed, the broader hockey community knows this could very well be the launchpad for his next head coaching stint.

“I’m here to do whatever is asked of me to help this organization grow,” Woodcroft emphasized. “It’s not about titles — it’s about winning, improving, and building something special.”

Anaheim fans, desperate for progress after years of rebuilding frustration, are cautiously optimistic. The addition of a respected coach with playoff credentials suggests the Ducks are serious about turning a corner.

Still, challenges remain. The Pacific Division is a gauntlet, with powerhouses like the Vegas Golden Knights, Edmonton Oilers, and Vancouver Canucks setting a high bar. For Anaheim to claw back into contention, it will take patience, execution, and the kind of detailed coaching Woodcroft is known for.

For now, Woodcroft’s return is being met with applause across much of the NHL landscape. His firing from Edmonton was viewed by many as premature, and his prolonged absence from the league only fueled debate about how head coaching candidates are evaluated. His hiring by the Ducks is seen as a course correction — both for Woodcroft and for NHL teams recognizing the value of modern, adaptable coaching styles.

As the upcoming season approaches, all eyes will be on Anaheim to see how Woodcroft’s influence materializes. For the Ducks, it’s a strategic move aimed at blending youth development with immediate improvement. For Jay Woodcroft, it’s a chance to reclaim his place in the NHL coaching fraternity — and, perhaps, rewrite the narrative of a career that many believe still holds unfinished chapters.

After all, for a coach whose dismissal once sparked outrage among Oilers faithful, few deserve a second chance as much as Jay Woodcroft. With the Ducks, that opportunity has finally arrived. And if his history is any indication, the league might not have seen the last of him behind an NHL bench with the title of head coach.

In the unpredictable world of professional hockey, all it takes is one door to open. For Jay Woodcroft, the Ducks have cracked that door — and he’s stepping through it with purpose.