Oilers poised to appoint Mike Babcock despite privacy allegations
Reports indicate the Edmonton Oilers are nearing an agreement to hire Mike Babcock as head coach, contingent on a potential league inquiry into his recent resignation from Columbus amid claims of violating players' privacy.
The Edmonton Oilers are reportedly set to hire Mike Babcock as their next head coach, marking a significant move for the franchise led by superstars Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. According to reports from TSN, Sportsnet, and ESPN on June 8, a deal is nearing completion, with Babcock having held discussions with Oilers owner Daryl Katz and the team’s core group of leaders in the locker room.
The potential appointment follows a tumultuous 78-day tenure for Babcock with the Columbus Blue Jackets, which ended with his resignation amid allegations that he violated players’ privacy. The NHL Players’ Association (NHLPA) conducted an on-site investigation in September 2023 into claims that Babcock pressured players into showing photos on their cell phones. While some players and former Blue Jackets leadership defended the actions as innocent attempts to build team cohesion, not all players shared that view with investigators.
Sources indicate that the NHL may need to conduct its own investigation into the circumstances of Babcock’s departure from Columbus before the Oilers can proceed with the hiring. The Oilers have consulted with the NHLPA regarding potential objections to the hire, although the union has declined to comment on the matter. The outcome of any league inquiry remains a critical factor in finalising the agreement.
Babcock’s departure from Columbus was widely viewed as a forced decision, despite his initial statement suggesting he resigned to avoid further distraction for the team. The controversy contributed to the dismissal of former Blue Jackets general manager Jarmo Kekalainen and the transition of former president of hockey operations John Davidson into a senior advisory role. Davidson had previously acknowledged that the organisation “got it wrong” in the process of hiring Babcock.
If confirmed, this would be Babcock’s fifth NHL head coaching position, following stints with the Anaheim Ducks, Detroit Red Wings, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Blue Jackets. He is 12th all-time in career NHL coaching wins and holds a Stanley Cup title with Detroit, alongside a decorated international record with Canada, including Olympic gold medals in 2010 and 2014.
