Report: Oilers most interested in McLellan, despite Babcock being available

Mike Babcock may be the most sought-after coach by every NHL team, except the Edmonton Oilers.

Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman reported that the Oilers are pursuing Todd McLellan, even though Babcock is testing the market.

Newly-appointed Oilers general manager Peter Chiarelli has been in talks with the former San Jose Sharks bench boss, who has impressed Oilers superstars, Taylor Hall and Jordan Eberle, at the World Championship.

Friedman also confirms the Oilers are working hard to get something done with McLellan, but the team wouldn't comment, although there was a lengthy discussion between interim head coach Todd Nelson and Chiarelli.

Nelson served as the Oilers interim head coach after they relieved Dallas Eakins of the position in December, but with front office changes sweeping across the organization like a tornado, it's likely a new candidate - such as McLellan - will fill the coaching void.