NHL Probe Into Mike Babcock Could Uncover Major Issues Beyond Phone Scandal

The NHL’s ongoing investigation into Mike Babcock’s time with the Columbus Blue Jackets may uncover a major issue that goes well beyond the phone-related controversy that led to his 2023 resignation. According to insider Frank Seravalli, new information suggests the situation that forced Babcock to step down was far more serious than previously believed.

Sources close to the situation say the investigation could reveal a “significant and serious” issue that contributed to his departure. While the public narrative has focused on the now-famous incident involving players’ private photos, insiders believe there was an additional factor that made Babcock’s position untenable. The Blue Jackets fired their head coach in 2023 following a season where the team went 24-42-6, finishing 29th overall in the league.

Seravalli noted that the situation is “starting to percolate” in a way that could make it difficult for Babcock to regain credibility. That concern has grown as TSN’s Elliotte Friedman recently expressed doubt that the Edmonton Oilers would proceed with hiring Babcock once the investigation is complete.

Babcock resigned knowing the situation was “untenable,” according to Seravalli, which raises questions about what he may have been trying to avoid. The fact that the NHL is now conducting a full investigation, something that never happened in 2023, suggest the original issue may have been more than a simple coaching misstep.

The implications for the Oilers are significant. Babcock has been a top coaching target for the franchise, which has struggled to build a consistent contender since the 2022 Stanley Cup Final. The team has gone 18-34-4 this season, and a potential coaching change could be on the table before next season.

Seravalli also pointed out that the need for an investigation to determine Babcock’s eligibility for a coaching job would give any organization pause. “You would think that would give any organization pause,” he said.

With the investigation ongoing and new details emerging weekly, the timeline for any potential hiring decision is in question. The Oilers are expected to decide on their coaching staff by mid-July, but that timeline could shift depending on what the NHL finds.