In a stunning development that has hockey fans across North America buzzing, former Edmonton Oilers general manager and legendary NHL executive Glen Sather has just touched down in Edmonton and wasted no time making headlines. Now active in the media space and fresh off the launch of his new hockey podcast, “The Sather Sessions”, the Hall of Famer released a bold and unexpected message to current Oilers GM Stan Bowman and the entire Oilers organization.
The statement, which was first teased through his podcast’s official X (formerly Twitter) account and then confirmed in an impromptu press conference at Edmonton International Airport, took a direct tone:
“This franchise was built on legacy, grit, and loyalty. I don’t like what I’m seeing right now. The direction the team is taking under Bowman doesn’t reflect the values we built in the dynasty years. And the players — some of them need to look in the mirror and ask if they’re truly playing for the crest on their chest.”
Sather, who famously built the Oilers dynasty of the 1980s and coached legends like Wayne Gretzky and Mark Messier, appeared visibly emotional as he criticized what he called a “loss of identity” in the current roster and management approach.
When asked whether his remarks were intended as a challenge or an offer to assist, Sather responded cryptically:
“Let’s just say I didn’t come here to sit in the stands and clap politely.”
Bowman Yet to Respond
Stan Bowman, who took over as general manager in 2024 amid controversy and high expectations, has not yet responded to Sather’s remarks. Sources close to the team suggest that tensions have been simmering behind the scenes for weeks, especially following the Oilers’ disappointing preseason performance and rumored locker room unrest.
A Divided Fanbase Reacts
Fans are already divided. Some are praising Sather for speaking out and calling for a return to the “Oilers way” of old. Others believe his comments may only create more instability for a team still trying to find its rhythm ahead of the 2025-26 season.
Sather is expected to expand on his statement in the upcoming episode of The Sather Sessions, set to air tomorrow morning.
