Columbus Blue Jackets Investigate Mike Babcock's Past Amid NHLPA Inquiry

The Columbus Blue Jackets are set to investigate coach Mike Babcock's past amid an NHLPA inquiry into his conduct. Babcock was hired by the Blue Jackets in July 2023 but resigned in September of the same year after an NHLPA investigation into claims that he violated players' privacy. The investigation would cover Babcock's time with the Blue Jackets and may impact his potential hiring by the Edmonton Oilers. The Oilers have been in talks with Babcock, who has a pedigree of success and championship experience, but the NHLPA's investigation may complicate the process. Babcock won a Stanley Cup in 2008 with the Detroit Red Wings and is 12th in career wins by an NHL coach. He is in the IIHF Triple Gold Club, having coached a world championship-winning team in 2004, a Stanley Cup winner and Olympic gold medal winners for Canada in 2010 and 2014. The Oilers would be Babcock's fourth NHL coaching stop, and his hiring may depend on the outcome of the NHLPA's investigation. The Blue Jackets' management is expected to cooperate with the investigation, which may provide insight into Babcock's past conduct and its potential impact on his future coaching career. The NHLPA's investigation may also shed light on the team's decision to hire Babcock in the first place and the circumstances surrounding his resignation. The Blue Jackets' management has stated that they 'got it wrong' in hiring Babcock, and the investigation may provide a clearer understanding of the team's actions and their consequences. The NHLPA's investigation is ongoing, and its outcome may have significant implications for Babcock's future coaching career and the Blue Jackets' management. The investigation may also impact the Oilers' decision to hire Babcock, who has a strong track record as a coach but may be tainted by the allegations of misconduct. The NHLPA's investigation is a complex and sensitive issue, and its outcome may depend on a variety of factors, including the evidence presented and the testimony of key witnesses. The investigation may also raise questions about the team's hiring practices and the vetting process for coaches. The Blue Jackets' management may face scrutiny for their decision to hire Babcock, and the investigation may provide a clearer understanding of the team's actions and their consequences. The NHLPA's investigation is ongoing, and its outcome may have significant implications for Babcock's future coaching career and the Blue Jackets' management. The investigation may also impact the Oilers' decision to hire Babcock, who has a strong track record as a coach but may be tainted by the allegations of misconduct.