Leading candidates for key Oilers coaching job revealed by insider

Dustin Schwartz, the former Oilers goaltending coach, had been with Edmonton since 2015, though his contract was not extended when it expired on June 30th.

Filling the goalie coach position is critical, given the instability in the Oilers' net. The sooner they can hire a candidate, the sooner can he develop a relationship with Edmonton's goalies, and develop a plan for the coaching staff to stabilize the crease.

Reports now reveal that six candidates are being considered for the goalie coach position, with Jeff Salajko the only internal one; he is the Oilers Head of Goalie Scouting and Development. Prior to Edmonton, Jeff had spent six years as the goaltending coach for the Detroit Red Wings.

One candidate that might have an edge on the others is Adam Fantillo, who has already worked with Stuart Skinner in the offseason. Adam is known for his focus on biomechanics and positioning. Fantillo has also worked with Thatcher Demko, Connor Hellebuyck and James Reimer.

Justin Cardinal is said to be one of the top candidates for the Oilers job. The 44 year-old Alberta native started Evolution Goaltending, and has coached in the WHL since 2008-29. He's worked with NHL goalie Logan Thompson, and is said to have been essential in developing Stanley Cup champ Aidan Hill of the Golden Knights.

Another candidate is Stephane Waite, who's been coaching elite goaltenders since 1983-84. He began coaching at the NHL level in 2003-04, with the Chicago Blackhawks, with whom he won two Stanley Cups.

Finally, Sylvain Rodrigue began as a goalie coach in 2003-04 in the QMJHL, where he developed his craft before moving to Europe to coach at a pro-level until 2014-15. His fist NHL goalie coaching job was in 2014-15, with the Edmonton Oilers, so the front office is already familiar with his coaching style and philosophy.

The 52 year-old Rodrigue jumped between the NHL Oilers and AHL Bakersfield until 2023-24, where he spent eight years in the NHL and six in the AHL. In 2024-25, Sylvain was goalie coach for the AHL Charlotte Checkers.

It is clear from these candidates' resumes that they all have experience coaching at an elite level. What will eventually distinguish the winning candidate will be a mix of on- and off-ice skills.

A strong ability to communicate effectively is critical when dealing with young goaltenders, who typically take years to develop their craft, and a strong proficiency in the latest sports science techniques, in order to develop physiology, biomechanics and sports psychology.

We'll announce the winning candidate when it becomes available. Stay tuned to Oilers Daily for updates.