Columbus Blue Jackets and Mike Babcock part ways amid investigation

Mike Babcock resigned as the head coach of the Columbus Blue Jackets, the team announced Sunday.

The resignation comes amid an investigation by the NHL Players’ Association into reports of Babcock invading the privacy of his players by requesting to see their cellphone photos.

The NHL Players’ Association said on Thursday that its executive director and assistant executive director were in Columbus, Ohio, to investigate the reports. Marty Walsh and Ron Hainsey were meeting with some Blue Jackets players as part of the investigation.

The allegations first came to light on the “Spittin’ Chiclets” podcast, but were refuted by Babcock and Columbus captain Boone Jenner. They said in a joint statement the report is “a gross misrepresentation of those meetings and extremely offensive.”

“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,” said Babcock.

“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, who spent the past two years coaching his hometown University of Saskatchewan Huskies, saw his return to the NHL end before he got to coach a single game.

“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,” said Blue Jackets general manager and alternate governor Jarmo Kekalainen. “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.”

The Blue Jackets also announced that associate coach Pascal Vincent has been named head coach and agreed to a two-year contract through the 2024-25 season.

— With files from the Canadian Press.