Babcock, Blue Jackets release official statements; Jackets name a new head coach
In a shocking turn of events, late Sunday afternoon, Mike Babcock officially stepped down as head coach of the Columbus Blue Jackets after allegations had surfaced of inappropriate conduct relating to an alleged invasion of privacy on Babcock's part towards several young players in the organization.
This week, during an episode of Spittin' Chiclets podcast, Paul "Biz Nasty" Bissonnette came forward, revealing that sources had told him that Babcock had allegedly gone through players' phones and looked at their pictures. While most were revealed to have given their consent, some allegedly did not consent to Babcock going through their phones, at least not to the extent that he did while probing for information to "get to know his players better".
Babcock had stepped down this afternoon after a thorough investigation from the NHLPA had invited "too much of a distraction", in Babcock's own words. Both the veteran coach and the organization issued statements on the matter shortly after 4pm ET on Sunday.
"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. 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." - Babcock on his resignation
Blue Jackets GM Jarmo Kekalainen had this to say of Babcock's premature departure from the organization:
"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. 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." - Kekalainen on Babcock's resignation
The Blue Jackets have named Pascal Vincent as the team's next head coach following Babcock's resignation. Kekalainen believes that Vincent is capable of stepping in and shouldering the load in Columbus, revealing that Vincent was a "strong candidate" to be named the Blue Jackets' head coach during their recent coaching search.
"Pascal Vincent is an outstanding coach. He knows our players and organization and is respected by everyone here. He was a strong candidate for our head coaching position several months ago and is in the best position to help us navigate this change as we begin camp and lead our team moving forward."
This is not an enviable position to be in for the Blue Jackets and, as Babcock had alluded to, is one heck of a distraction right before training camp.
| POLL |
SEPTEMBRE 17 | 162 ANSWERS Babcock, Blue Jackets release official statements; Jackets name a new head coach Did Babcock do the right thing by stepping down in Columbus? |
| Yes | 98 | 60.5 % |
| No | 24 | 14.8 % |
| Don't care | 40 | 24.7 % |
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