Edmonton Oilers' Mike Babcock coaching pursuit stalls amid NHL investigation

The Edmonton Oilers have kept former coach Mike Babcock on their shortlist despite the NHL opening a formal investigation into his 2023 resignation from the Columbus Blue Jackets. The league’s inquiry, prompted by allegations that were not publicly disclosed, has so far produced no new evidence, but it has intensified scrutiny of the Oilers’ hiring options.

Sources say the Oilers met with Babcock and also with Peter Laviolette, who was later hired by Los Angeles. Player agents have voiced concerns that hiring Babcock could affect player negotiations and the team’s reputation, while the NHL Players’ Association has asked for the investigation to be completed before any hiring decision. The uncertainty surrounding the probe adds a distraction to Edmonton’s plans to build around stars Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl.

If the investigation clears Babcock, the Oilers could still face lingering perception issues among players, potentially complicating future roster moves and trade discussions.