 This was a name that had previously been used as a nickname for the Edmonton Oil Kings in the 1950s and 1960s.Hunter also served as head coach during the 1972–73, 1974–75, and 1975–76 seasons, and the Oilers' mascot, Hunter, is named in his honour.After the newly founded Calgary Broncos folded prior to commencement of the inaugural WHA season, the Oilers were renamed the Alberta Oilers as it was planned to split their home games between Edmonton and Calgary.