Latest Update Looking Very Bleak for Mike Babcock

PUBLICATION

TJ Tucker
September 15, 2023 (5:22 PM)

SHARE THIS STORY

What seemed like an innocent enough activity to get to know his new players better has ballooned into a whole lot of trouble for Mike Babcock, head coach of the Columbus Blue Jackets. The latest information available on the situation is looking even more dire when it comes to Babcock keeping his job.

Before the already controversial coach even got to his first game behind the bench, accusations came out that Babcock had players pull out their phones and show him pictures in an attempt to get to know them better. Both Boone Jenner and Johnny Gaudreau came to the defense of their new bench boss, saying it was done with innocence and a sincere attempt learn more about his new team. However, Michael Russo, of The Athletic, has made it clear not every player saw it that way, and Babcock just might be out the door.

"Trust me when I tell you that there were players in Columbus that were absolutely weirded out by the situation, and this is not going away. This is a major problem right now."

"Because of his (Babcock's) history of not exactly being the greatest coach and most caring coach for young players in the past," said Russo, explaining that he was trying to be careful with his words as kids were listening, "Babcock has put himself in a position of where there are so many people in this league that don't like him, in terms of players, that I think people are excitedly trying to out him on every weird thing that he does." - Worst Seats in the House Podcast

This incident was first discussed by Paul Bissonnette on the Spittin' Chiclets podcast, who said he got his information from a player. He was initially criticized for possibly blowing something way out of proportion, but Bissonnette stuck to his info, and it has since gained more credibility. Representatives from both the NHL and NHLPA were in a meeting today to discuss the situation further, but neither would provide an update.

Meanwhile, Nick Kypreos is saying the investigation will include players and staff who had previous dealings with Babcock.