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Oilers star reportedly opposed to Mike Babcock hire - "Can't support the hiring"
The Oilers have consulted the NHL Players' Association as reports say a deal for the controversial coach is nearing, sources said.
- On Monday, the Edmonton Oilers moved closer to hiring Mike Babcock as head coach, with sources confirming he met with owner Daryl Katz and team leadership while the club consults with the NHL Players' Association.
- Hiring Babcock carries significant baggage due to his 2023 resignation from the Columbus Blue Jackets following an NHLPA investigation into allegations he violated players' privacy by demanding to see personal photos on their cellphones.
- Team captain Connor McDavid provided his stamp of approval for the potential hire, a move insiders suggest was necessary to ensure the locker room would accept a figure associated with such a 'toxic departure' from his previous role.
- Facing a 'Stanley Cup or bust' mentality, management appears willing to endure PR fallout after failing to secure former Vegas Golden Knights head coach Bruce Cassidy, who remains under contract with the franchise.
- Despite his lengthy absence from the bench since 2019, the 63-year-old boasts a legendary pedigree as the only coach in the IIHF Triple Gold Club, having won a Stanley Cup and two Olympic gold medals for Canada.
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Reports say Edmonton Oilers may hire former Columbus Blue Jackets coach Mike Babcock despite violation of privacy allegations made by players.
·Columbus, United States
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Oilers Got Approval from McDavid to Approach Mike Babcock
Another unexpected development has hit the NHL offseason as the Edmonton Oilers reported next coach is a surprise candidate. Mike Babcock is tipped to eventually be named as the Oilers new bench boss, pending league approval. To say that this would be an out of left field hire is an understatement. Babcock has a lengthy resume when it comes to NHL head coaching experience. He has won plenty, but that success has not come without its baggage. He …
·New York, United States
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Total News Sources17
Leaning Left6Leaning Right2Center4Last UpdatedBias Distribution50% Left
Bias Distribution
- 50% of the sources lean Left
50% Left
L 50%
C 33%
R 17%
Factuality
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