NHL launches investigation into Mike Babcock before Oilers decision

The NHL will formally investigate Mike Babcock's 2023 resignation from Columbus, the league announced Monday — a move that directly affects the Edmonton Oilers' coaching search.

Sources indicate multiple parties will be interviewed as part of the process. At issue is whether any further penalty will be issued and whether the Oilers will be permitted to hire him.

The Oilers targeted Babcock as part of their head-coaching search, seeking experience, a winning history, and someone willing to assert authority over star players. He met with ownership and the front office, and later met face-to-face with a small group of players in Toronto, according to multiple sources. Peter Laviolette, who was eventually hired by Los Angeles, was the other finalist in that round.

When the Oilers organization and players involved contacted the league and the NHLPA to ask whether anything blocked a Babcock hire, the union reacted negatively and voiced objections in multiple conversations. However, Oilers leadership who spoke with other players and Babcock directly were prepared to move ahead if allowed.

Sources indicate there were issues beyond examining players' phones that led to Babcock's Columbus departure. Some Blue Jackets players and staff members from that era initially indicated reluctance to revisit what happened and didn't want to participate in the investigation.

Several agents of Edmonton players not directly involved in conversations with Babcock also voiced concerns, adding they didn't want clients traded to the team either.

The Oilers appear willing to wait for the investigation's conclusions before ruling Babcock out as a contender.