Three years after leaving the Columbus Blue Jackets, Mike Babcock has finally spoken in detail about the situation that ended his NHL return before it even started.

During his introductory press conference as the new head coach of the Edmonton Oilers, reporters asked Babcock about his exit from Columbus in 2023. Sportsnet shared the interview on social media.

“Well, I chose to walk away really straightforward, and I appreciate the question here. It was very evident before the year started," he shared.

Babcock said he quickly realized that leaving was the right decision.

The veteran NHL coach said he noticed the problem almost right away, even before the season started.

“I hadn't benched anybody," he shared. "I hadn't talked to anybody. I hadn't sat anybody out, and it was evident that we weren't together as a staff right from the get-go.”

He realized that any situation that makes people uncomfortable is something he should think about and learn from. He added that he is always trying to improve and mentioned the review carried out by the NHL Players' Association.

“And I think that's what you do as a person, is you try to always be better at what you do," he said. "The situation in Columbus, they've had a full review, and I'm thankful to the NHL and NHLPA for doing that.”

Babcock’s time with the Columbus Blue Jackets ended in September 2023 after claims that he asked players to show photos from their phones during meetings.

Former NHL player Paul Bissonnette reported that some players felt uncomfortable. Babcock and Blue Jackets captain Boone Jenner disagreed with those claims, but the National Hockey League Players' Association reviewed the situation before Babcock resigned.

He becomes the Oilers' 19th coach overall and the sixth to lead the team since Connor McDavid was drafted No. 1 overall in 2015.

His comments give new insight into one of the NHL’s most talked-about coaching controversies in recent years.

Oilers count on experience despite lingering questions

The story is back in the spotlight because Babcock has officially returned to the NHL. The 63-year-old is now the head coach of the Oilers after the team fired Kris Knoblauch following a disappointing first-round playoff exit.

Now, Babcock says he has already met with Edmonton’s leaders, including McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and Zach Hyman. He said he only wanted to return if the players fully supported his coaching style. Now that Babcock is back, Commissioner Gary Bettman has set the expectations clear.

"Based on our investigation, we concluded there was no basis upon which he should be prohibited from coaching," he said (as quoted via ESPN). "Having said that, we do -- and Mr. Babcock knows it because I spoke to him -- expect a certain level of decorum and conduct among all NHL personnel, especially head coaches."

Babcock led the Detroit Red Wings to the championship in 2008. So, the Oilers believe his Stanley Cup-winning background can help a team built to compete right now.

Can Mike Babcock turn his return to the NHL into a successful comeback? Comment down below. 

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Written by

Kapil Manghnani

Edited by

Soheli Tarafdar