NHL Pauses on Babcock Hire as Oilers Weigh Investigation Risk

The Edmonton Oilers are holding off on a decision to hire Mike Babcock as head coach while the NHL considers a potential investigation into allegations from his time with the Columbus Blue Jackets. According to reports from Darren Dreger and Pierre LeBrun, the NHL Players’ Association has requested a formal review of claims that Babcock violated player privacy during his tenure in Columbus. The league will only proceed with the investigation if the Oilers move forward with hiring the veteran coach.

Babcock, who has 715 career NHL wins and a Stanley Cup championship, is still in the running for the Oilers’ head coaching position. The 61-year-old has also coached Canada to Olympic gold in 2010 and 2014, and led the Detroit Red Wings to a Presidents’ Trophy in 2016. However, the controversy surrounding his past has complicated what was already a high-profile coaching search.

Darren Dreger tweeted on June 10, 2026: “The NHLPA has asked the NHL to move forward with an investigation into the allegations Mike Babcock invaded players’ privacy during his time in Columbus.” This request has forced the Oilers into a difficult position, as they weigh the potential fallout of hiring a coach who could trigger league scrutiny before even signing a contract.

The Oilers are in a critical window with two-time Hart Trophy winner Connor McDavid and All-Star forward Leon Draisaitl in their prime. The team’s focus should be on creating a stable and championship-ready environment, not managing headlines and controversy before training camp.

Bruce Cassidy remains a top alternative on the market. The 60-year-old has won a Stanley Cup with the Boston Bruins in 2022 and is widely respected across the league. His availability is still uncertain, but the Oilers are advised to wait for clarity before making a final decision. With several experienced coaches still in play, there is no need to rush.

The league is not pressuring Edmonton to make a decision immediately. If the Oilers ultimately choose not to hire Babcock, the NHL will not pursue the investigation. This gives the organization time to evaluate its options without external pressure.

Oilers general manager Kent Hjelle has been known for his deliberate approach to major decisions. With McDavid’s long-term future still a topic of discussion, the next head coach will have a major impact on the team’s direction.

The Oilers have until July 1 to name a head coach before training camp begins. Until then, all options remain on the table. But if an investigation is required before a coach can be officially hired, that may be the final factor that determines Edmonton’s next move.