Big update on the rumors linking Mike Babcock to Edmonton.

The Edmonton Oilers have had a significant slump in performance as of late and as a result of the team cooling off considerably there have been a great many questions about potential changes that may be made to the organization.

The most popular topic of discussion has been the future of Edmonton Oilers head coach Dave Tippett, which makes some sense considering the fact that he has been unable to right the ship after a very hot start to the season for the Oilers. It has been more than just talk about Tippett being replaced, last week a huge name came up in regards to this topic when former Toronto Maple Leafs head coach Mike Babcock was rumored as Tippett's potential replacement.

You can see why that would be the case. Not only is Babcock arguably the most decorated coach in the world right now, not only is he currently available, but he also has a long standing connection with Edmonton Oilers general manager Ken Holland from their time together with the Detroit Red Wings. While it makes a ton of sense on paper, the rumors regarding Babcock to Edmonton may have been overblown.

NHL insider Elliotte Friedman recently addressed the rumors, and appeared to pour cold water on the whole affair. According to Friedman there has been no communication between Holland and Babcock.

"But he has not talked to [Babcock] or any of his representatives about the job," said Friedman on the 32 Thoughts podcast.

In spite of the fact that Friedman does not believe there has been any communication between the 2 parties, it does sound like he fully expects these types of rumors to continue to emerge. Friedman acknowledged that speculation about what comes next for the Oilers is already well underway, adding that he believes the Oilers cannot afford to miss the playoffs this season.

"Unfortunately this is kind of where we are right now, right? The speculation is starting to begin. I don't think missing the playoffs this year for the Oilers is an option."

If this current run of form for the Oilers continues, it sounds like a change could very well be on the horizon in the near future.