As investigators look into Mike Babcock's past, one NHL insider suggests the veteran bench boss may soon return to the bench, potentially clearing a path to join the Edmonton Oilers.
According to NHL insider Chris Johnston, there's a strong likelihood that former NHL coach Mike Babcock will be cleared to resume his coaching career. Currently under investigation, Johnston noted, "I've seen other reporting, but...I know people that were right there and kind of have more of a sense of exactly what happened...they think he's going to be allowed to work."
Johnston did admit that it would be best not to prejudge the investigation since there are things that might have gone on he's unaware of.
If true that his transgressions were not serious, that would suggest the rumors that a much bigger issue than Babcock going through cell phones might be inaccurate. There was chatter that something problematic was buried when Babcock resigned from the league in 2023. If it resurfaced during the investigation, it could squash any chance of the Edmonton Oilers bringing him on as coach.
Should Babcock not have done anything more than what's already been reported, it would be hard for the league to keep him out because he's mean. If he's done nothing illegal, and nothing against the rules, being somewhat unethical, is an issue the Oilers will have to manage.
Elliotte Friedman noted, that there's no CBA between the coaches and the league, thus NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman has a lot of power in this situation. Friedman said, "I don't know how he's gonna rule; I'm sure he's gonna be looking to find out whatever else may have happened."
This decision could come quickly on Babcock. It's being said that the league doesn't want this lingering.
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