Former NHL player Mike Commodore has criticized Mike Babcock for taking no accountability for his past actions and controversies. Babcock was named the 19th head coach in Edmonton Oilers history on Tuesday.
Before that announcement, the NHL had opened an investigation into reports from his time with the Columbus Blue Jackets.
Those stories claimed the veteran coach had asked players for personal photos and crossed the line on their privacy. The probe also looked into some other undisclosed complaints that weren’t made public.
In the end, the league wrapped up its review and gave the green light for Babcock’s return, saying there’s no reason right now to keep him away from working in the NHL.
During his first media interaction since his appointment as the Oilers’ new coach, Babcock delivered a straightforward “no” to a question on whether he had crossed the line with his actions in Columbus:
“No, to be honest with you, anytime you make anybody feel uncomfortable in your life, you should take a look at yourself and say, ‘How could I do that better?” said Babcock.
Babcock’s comments appeared to have triggered Mike Commodore, who took to social media and blasted Babcock for showing zero accountability:
“Afternoon Folks…. ZERO accountability, ZERO contrition. Anyone who paved/cleared the way for Mike Babcock to get another opportunity in the NHL should be ashamed of themselves. Fuck Mike Babcock,” he wrote on X.
Mike Babcock has a long history of criticism
During the same interview, Mike Babcock credited his wife’s request with helping him get out of Columbus.
“My wife gave me a call and she said it’s time to get out of there,” Babcock explained. “I’ve been retired, I was pretty good at it. I got back to being retired.”
Babcock’s stint with the Blue Jackets lasted just over two months due to the players’ privacy violation controversy after resigning on September 23. He did not coach a single game for the team in the league.
The 63-year-old has a long history of facing criticism from former players regarding his coaching style and alleged mistreatment over his career.
It will be interesting to see how the Oilers fare under him, especially the star duo of Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, who are desperately waiting for the first title in the Oil Country.
Also Read: Fans fume over Mike Babcock’s explanation for exit from Blue Jackets
Edited by Abhishek Dilta