NHLPA releases statement after Mike Babcock resigns from Blue Jackets

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Cooper Godin
September 21, 2023 (9:58)

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After allegations came out last week regarding Mike Babcock making players feel uncomfortable during meetings and asking to see photos on their cell phones, the longtime NHL head coach resigned from the Columbus Blue Jackets.

In his statement, Babcock refused to acknowledge any wrongdoing and went on to wish the organization all the best moving forward.

Later in the evening, the National Hockey League Players' Association released a statement regarding the news. The NHL and NHLPA launched an investigation after the allegations came to light on the Spittin' Chiclets podcast last week.

"Our players deserve to be treated with respect in the workplace. Unfortunately, that was not the case in Columbus. The club's decision to move forward with a new head coach is the appropriate course of action." NHLPA Executive Director Marty Walsh said.

Following the news that Mike Babcock was resigning, the Blue Jackets announced that Associate Coach Pascal Vincent had been promoted to the Head Coach role and given a two-year extension.

The Blue Jackets will move forward with Vincent at the helm and with training camp opening later this week, will try to put this behind them and turn their focus on preparing for the 2023-24 season. Columbus will open their 2023-24 campaign on October 12th at home against the Philadelphia Flyers.