Babcock cleared to coach Oilers

The NHL has cleared Mike Babcock to coach again, following an investigation into his conduct during his brief tenure with the Columbus Blue Jackets. The investigation was prompted by concerns regarding Babcock's request to view personal photos from players' phones, leading to his resignation just months into the job.

The NHL stated there is no basis to restrict his employment, and the NHL Players' Association expressed concerns but acknowledged the ruling. With Babcock now available, the Edmonton Oilers are reportedly interested in hiring him as their head coach.

Sources indicate that several veteran players on the Oilers support this potential hiring. The Oilers previously targeted Bruce Cassidy, but due to contractual complications with the Vegas Golden Knights, they shifted focus to Babcock.

This would mark Babcock's return to the NHL after being fired from the Toronto Maple Leafs in November 2019, a team he led to three consecutive playoff appearances but failed to advance past the first round.

Should he be hired, Babcock would be the sixth head coach for the Oilers since Connor McDavid joined the team, following the dismissal of Kris Knoblauch after a first-round playoff exit against the Anaheim Ducks.