The National Hockey League has initiated a review into the circumstances surrounding Mike Babcock’s resignation as head coach of the Columbus Blue Jackets in September 2023, a person familiar with the matter confirmed. Babcock stepped down before coaching a single game for the team, raising questions that have prompted the league’s current inquiry.

The investigation, which is being conducted confidentially, was requested by the NHL Players’ Association following reports that the Edmonton Oilers were considering Babcock for a coaching position. The league postponed any action until after the conclusion of the Stanley Cup finals, subsequently moving forward with the probe.

Babcock’s brief tenure with the Blue Jackets ended less than three months after he was hired. His approach to building relationships with players, including requesting personal photographs as part of his introductory process, was met with criticism and viewed by some as an invasion of privacy. While the union conducted an initial review, the NHL had previously dropped its planned investigation after Babcock’s resignation.

Babcock, who turned 63 in April, has not coached an NHL game since being dismissed by the Toronto Maple Leafs 23 games into the 2019-20 season. All coaching appointments within the league require NHL approval, adding a further regulatory layer to the situation under review. The league has not disclosed additional details as the investigation continues.