Overview
- The NHL said on June 18 that its review of Mike Babcock’s brief 2023 tenure with the Columbus Blue Jackets found "no current basis to restrict his employment in the League."
- That finding removes the primary regulatory obstacle to hiring and multiple reporters say the Edmonton Oilers are the frontrunners and expected to begin contract negotiations imminently.
- The NHL Players’ Association described the allegations as "very concerning" but acknowledged the league’s conclusion and said it expects Babcock to meet the standards required of NHL head coaches.
- Babcock resigned from Columbus in September 2023 after reports he asked players to show personal photos from their phones and his record includes past complaints about his treatment of players in Toronto and Detroit.
- If Edmonton moves ahead, the hire could affect locker‑room dynamics, player retention and free‑agent decisions during Connor McDavid’s remaining contract window and will be closely watched as a test of the club’s culture and calculus for immediate Cup contention.