The NHL has completed its review of Mike Babcock and cleared him to return as a coach in the league. The decision opens the door for the Edmonton Oilers to hire the 63-year-old.
NHL officials stated that the league found no grounds to limit Babcock's ability to work after examining his abrupt departure from the Columbus Blue Jackets in September 2023. Babcock left the team before coaching any games amid criticism over requests for players to share private phone images.
The review was initiated by the NHL Players' Association following reports that the Oilers were considering Babcock for their vacant head coaching position. Multiple interviews with former Columbus players were conducted via Zoom as part of the process.
According to sources cited by ESPN, the Oilers intend to move forward with hiring Babcock. Several veteran players on the Edmonton roster have expressed support for the move. Babcock previously won the Stanley Cup with the Detroit Red Wings in 2008 and has coached the Anaheim Ducks and Toronto Maple Leafs.
