Key facts
- The NHL Players Association has asked the NHL to investigate coach Mike Babcock before he can be hired by another team.
- The request stems from concerns over Babcock's past treatment of players during his tenure with the Columbus Blue Jackets.
- Babcock resigned from the Blue Jackets in September 2023 after less than three months on the job.
- Reports indicated the Edmonton Oilers were interested in hiring Babcock as their new coach.
- All NHL coaching hires are subject to league approval.
The NHL Players Association has formally requested that the league investigate coach Mike Babcock's past conduct before he can be hired by any NHL team, including the Edmonton Oilers, who have reportedly expressed interest. The union's request follows reports of Babcock's controversial methods during his brief tenure with the Columbus Blue Jackets, where he resigned in September 2023 after less than three months.
Concerns raised by the NHLPA center on Babcock's alleged invasion of privacy and mistreatment of players, with NHLPA executive director Marty Walsh stating that players deserve respect in the workplace. Babcock's coaching career includes a Stanley Cup win with Detroit in 2008 and Olympic gold medals with Canada in 2010 and 2014. However, former players have publicly criticized his old-school approach, with some describing it as bullying.
The Oilers are currently seeking a new head coach after firing Kris Knoblauch. Their attempt to secure permission to interview Bruce Cassidy from the Vegas Golden Knights was reportedly denied, a move Deputy Commissioner Bill Daly stated was within Vegas's contractual rights.