Getty Images
The Columbus Blue Jackets made an official announcement on Saturday, introducing Mike Babcock as their new head coach. After his contract with the Toronto Maple Leafs expired on June 30, Babcock agreed to a two-year deal with the franchise.
Babcock, now joining his fourth NHL team, steps in to replace Brad Larsen and takes charge of a Columbus team that finished 31st overall last season with a record of 25-48-9. Expressing his enthusiasm, Babcock stated in a press release that he is excited about the opportunity to work with a franchise that possesses all the necessary resources for success.
“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to my family for their unwavering support, as well as the ownership group led by the McConnell family, Mike Priest, JD, and Jarmo for granting me the privilege to join this organization,” Babcock stated. “Columbus is an exceptional city with committed ownership, a stellar management team, talented players, world-class facilities, and a dedicated, passionate fan base. I couldn’t be more thrilled to serve as the head coach of the Columbus Blue Jackets.”
Babcock embarked on his head coaching career with the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim in 2002, guiding the team to the Stanley Cup Final in his inaugural year. Following a two-year stint in Anaheim, Babcock moved on to become the head coach of the Detroit Red Wings.
During his ten seasons with the Red Wings, Babcock led the team to the playoffs every year, capturing the Stanley Cup in 2008 and reaching the Stanley Cup Final in 2009. In 2015, Babcock accepted a head coaching position with the Maple Leafs.
However, Toronto failed to advance beyond the first round under Babcock’s leadership, leading to his dismissal early in the 2019-20 season. With a career record of 700-418-19-164, Babcock brings a wealth of experience to the Columbus Blue Jackets.
Since parting ways with the Maple Leafs, Babcock has not coached in the NHL and has faced criticism from former players regarding alleged mistreatment in the past. In response to these concerns, general manager Jarmo Kekalainen emphasized the thoroughness of the team’s hiring process in the Blue Jackets’ official announcement.
“Our primary objective throughout this process was to secure a coach who can provide our players with the best possible environment for success, characterized by structure, discipline, and experience, as we continue to build a team capable of competing for the Stanley Cup,” stated Kekalainen. “After an exhaustive and meticulous selection process, we are delighted to welcome Mike Babcock as the new head coach of the Columbus Blue Jackets.”
Former NHL defenseman Mike Commodore has openly criticized Babcock for his coaching style, while former Red Wings forward Johan Franzen accused him of verbal abuse. These allegations were supported by Hall of Fame defenseman Chris Chelios.
In Toronto, it was reported that Babcock had asked star forward Mitch Marner to rank his teammates based on their work ethic during his rookie season.
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
You Might Also Like
Online Strategy Game 2023
TOTAL BATTLE – TACTICAL GAME ONLINE
Play Now
Man Who Made $95 million in 2008 Reveals New Prediction
VISIONARYPROFIT
New to investing: You must check out CopyTrader
ETORO
Click Here
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Head coach
Who is the new head coach of the Columbus Blue Jackets?
The new head coach of the Columbus Blue Jackets is Mike Babcock. He was officially announced as the head coach on Saturday.
What is Mike Babcock’s coaching experience?
Mike Babcock has an extensive coaching career in the NHL. He began as the head coach of the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim in 2002 and later became the head coach of the Detroit Red Wings. He also had a coaching stint with the Toronto Maple Leafs.
What is Babcock’s record as a head coach?
Mike Babcock has an all-time record of 700-418-19-164 as a head coach in the NHL.
Has Babcock faced any controversies?
Yes, Babcock has faced controversies, particularly regarding allegations of mistreatment by former players. There have been reports of verbal abuse and questionable coaching methods during his tenure.
How did the Columbus Blue Jackets choose Babcock as their head coach?
According to the official announcement, the Columbus Blue Jackets went through a thorough and lengthy process in selecting Babcock as their head coach. General manager Jarmo Kekalainen stated that they aimed to find a coach who could provide the best environment for success and lead the team towards a Stanley Cup championship.
What are the expectations for the Columbus Blue Jackets under Babcock’s leadership?
The expectations are that Babcock will bring structure, discipline, and experience to the team and help them compete for a Stanley Cup. The Columbus Blue Jackets organization believes that they have all the necessary resources for success and are confident in Babcock’s ability to lead the team.
More about Head coach
- Mike Babcock Named Head Coach of Columbus Blue Jackets
- Mike Babcock Coaching Record
- Mike Babcock’s Controversies
- Columbus Blue Jackets Official Announcement
- Columbus Blue Jackets Team Website
4 comments
i cant believe the blue jackets hired babcock. he was a disaster with the leafs. hope they regret it!
babcock’s coaching record speaks for itself. he knows how to get teams to the playoffs. hopefully, he can turn things around for the jackets!
wow, mike babcock is backkkkk! hes got lots of experience coaching in da NHL and hes a proven winner! go blue jackets!
excited to see what babcock brings to the table. our team needs some structure and discipline. hoping for a playoff run next season!