Updated
Updated · Fox News · Jun 18
NHL Clears Mike Babcock for Return After 2023 Blue Jackets Probe
Updated
Updated · Fox News · Jun 18

NHL Clears Mike Babcock for Return After 2023 Blue Jackets Probe

3 articles · Updated · Fox News · Jun 18

Summary

  • The NHL said Thursday it found no current basis to restrict Mike Babcock’s employment after reviewing his 2023 tenure with the Columbus Blue Jackets.
  • The probe examined allegations that Babcock asked Blue Jackets players to show personal photos on their phones, claims that surfaced before he resigned without coaching a game.
  • That finding removes a league obstacle to Babcock’s return and could clear the way for the Edmonton Oilers to hire the 2008 Stanley Cup-winning coach.
  • Babcock, 62, last coached in the NHL in 2019-20 with Toronto, making the ruling a key step in any comeback after his abrupt exit from Columbus.

Insights

With a history of player mistreatment, is Mike Babcock the leader a championship-hungry Oilers team truly needs?
Why are the Oilers betting on a controversial coach instead of fixing their disastrous goaltending and lack of depth?