Mike Babcock Scratches Jake Walman for Second Consecutive Game

Defenseman Jake Walman was sidelined for back-to-back games after recording a team-worst minus-7 rating through the early portion of the season.

Edmonton Oilers head coach Mike Babcock benched defenseman Jake Walman for a second straight game following the team's 4-0 victory over the Calgary Flames on Wednesday. Walman, who holds a team-worst minus-7 rating and has recorded one point this season, saw his ice time drop to just over 13 minutes during a 4-3 shootout loss to the Detroit Red Wings on Monday before being removed from the lineup.

This decision follows a similar move last week when forward Trent Frederic was designated as a healthy scratch due to underproduction. Veteran defenseman Mattias Ekholm noted after Friday's practice on Long Island that the coaching staff is using these lineup changes to enforce accountability. Leon Draisaitl confirmed that the 30-year-old Walman is expected to remain out of the lineup for Saturday’s matinee matchup against the New York Islanders.

Babcock, who replaced Kris Knoblauch following a first-round playoff exit last spring, met with Walman on Friday to discuss the defenseman's preparation and performance. The coach emphasized that players must be mentally tough and ready for opportunities when they arise. Walman was a member of the Edmonton roster during their 2025 trip to the Stanley Cup final but is currently working to regain his spot in the top six rotation.