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Pascal Vincent was promoted from associate
coach to head coach through the 2024-25 season.
Former NHL player turned podcast host and NHL TV analyst Paul
Bissonnette reported that Babcock asked several Jackets players
for their phones and displayed pictures via Airplay in Babcock's
office.
Babcock denied that he invaded the players' privacy, saying it
was part of a project to get to know each player better before
the start of training camp, and that the players chose which
pictures to show him.
Team captain Boone Jenner also released a statement defending
Babcock and saying the issue was "blown out of proportion."
The NHLPA sent executive director Marty Walsh and assistant
executive director Ron Hainsey to visit Babcock in Columbus on
Thursday as part of a fact-finding mission.
"Upon reflection, it has become clear that continuing as head
coach of the Columbus Blue Jackets was going to be too much of a
distraction," Babcock said in a statement. "While I'm
disappointed to not have had the opportunity to continue the
work we've begun, I know it's in the best interest of the
organization for me to step away at this time. I wish everyone
in the organization well in the upcoming season."
"This was a difficult decision on everyone's part, but one we
felt necessary to ensure our focus remains on the players and
the team's upcoming season," Blue Jackets general manager Jarmo
Kekalainen said in a statement. "On behalf of the entire Blue
Jackets organization, we want to thank Mike for his hard work
and the professionalism he has shown in working together on a
plan to step down."
Babcock, 60, spent time as head coach of the Anaheim Ducks
(2002-04), Detroit Red Wings (2005-15) and Toronto Maple Leafs
(2015-20). He led Detroit to the Stanley Cup in 2008.
Allegations of a toxic work environment surfaced early in the
2019-20 season, when he was fired by the Maple Leafs after a
six-game losing streak. He spent one season as the hockey coach
at the University of Saskatchewan after leaving Toronto.
Vincent, 51, will be a first-time NHL head coach. He joined the
Columbus coaching staff in June 2021.
--Field Level Media
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