NHL to investigate Mike Babcock’s 2023 resignation before any hiring decision
The league will examine the circumstances of the former coach’s departure from his previous team. Edmonton considered Babcock during its recent coaching search and contacted the NHL and NHLPA for guidance.
news.google.comMultiple parties are expected to be interviewed during the process. The review will determine whether any additional discipline applies and whether the Edmonton Oilers may proceed with hiring Babcock. The Oilers had included him among candidates after being denied permission to speak with another coach.
Oilers’ search process Babcock met with team ownership and front-office staff.
He later participated in an in-person meeting with a small group of players in Toronto, according to multiple sources. Oilers management and players sought feedback from other executives and players around the league. After those discussions, the organization contacted the NHL and involved players contacted the NHL Players’ Association to clarify any restrictions.
The NHLPA expressed objections in several conversations. Some members of the Oilers leadership group said they remained satisfied after speaking directly with Babcock and other players.
Earlier concerns and current status Reports indicated issues beyond phone reviews contributed to Babcock’s 2023 resignation. When he stepped down, the NHL and NHLPA initially closed the matter, though sources noted at least one additional conversation raised concern.
Some former players and staff from that period initially expressed reluctance to revisit events from three years ago. Several agents representing Edmonton players who were not part of the direct meetings also raised objections. The Oilers have stated they will await the investigation’s conclusions before deciding whether to continue considering Babcock.
The only other current coaching vacancy is in Toronto.
