The Mike Babcock investigation by the NHL, as requested by the NHL Players’ Association, has been completed. Babcock will be clear to coach as he pleases, and teams will be free to hire him, effective immediately. At this time, there does not appear to be a contract in place for the Edmonton Oilers to hire Babcock, but be sure to check in with us for all the very latest details. Let’s see how we got to this point.
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Mike Babcock Investigation Complete, Clearing His Name
“The League has completed its review of Mike Babcock’s tenure in Columbus, and of certain alleged conduct associated therewith. Our investigation has concluded that, even in a light least favourable to Mr. Babcock, there is no current basis to restrict his employment in the League,” said the league in an official press release on Thursday.
The latest controversy surrounding Babcock involves allegations of violating privacy after he got hired as head coach of the Columbus Blue Jackets. It was reported by the Spittin’ Chiclets Podcast that Babcock had ordered players to show him their cellphone photos as part of a character-building exercise. This led to Babcock announcing his resignation in that same offseason before training camp even began for the 2023-24 regular season, following an NHLPA investigation.
The NHLPA also did their own investigation this time, which led the NHL to do one. The Columbus incident was the main subject of the investigation.
Despite this controversy, he has a solid track record of coaching in the NHL. In ten seasons he coached the Detroit Red Wings, the team made the Stanley Cup Playoffs in every single year, including a Stanley Cup win in 2008. He also coached the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim, as well as the Toronto Maple Leafs. The 63-year-old has a record of 700-418-164 along with 19 ties in 1,301 career games coached. He has had 14 playoff appearances in his 17 seasons of NHL coaching.
The Edmonton Oilers have reportedly been linked to Babcock, which prompted this investigation in the first place. It should be only a matter of time before Babcock returns to an NHL bench to coach the likes of Connor McDavid and a team desperate to improve.
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Sounds like final details on a contract are being nailed down, but barring a last minute rush wouldn’t expect a press conference in Edmonton until early next week for Babcock.
— Ryan Rishaug (@TSNRyanRishaug) June 18, 2026
