Head coach Mike Babcock won’t even have time in his preseason schedule to coach a single game for the Columbus Blue Jackets.
The Ohio organization announced Sunday that he had resigned and that Quebecer Pascal Vincent would take his place.
“It was a difficult decision for everyone, but it was necessary for us to remain focused on the players and the team for the upcoming season,” Blue Jackets general manager Jarmo Kekalainen said via email in a news release Sunday .
“After thinking about it, it was clear that continuing as head coach of the Blue Jackets would be far too much of a distraction,” Babcock added. Although I am disappointed that I cannot continue the work I have begun, I know that it is in the best interests of the organization and myself to step down from my role. I wish everyone in the organization all the best for the upcoming campaign. »
Recall that last Tuesday on the Spittin’ Chiclets podcast it was revealed that Babcock delves into the personal lives of his players.
According to the coach, the story reported by Paul Bissonnette in the podcast is false.
“When I met our players and staff, I asked to show me photos of their families on their phones to get to know them. “There was no other goal behind this initiative,” the pilot said Friday.
Finally a chance for Pascal Vincent
This unfortunate situation gives 52-year-old Pascal Vincent the chance to manage a National Hockey League team for the first time in his career.
“Pascal is an exceptional coach,” said Kekalainen. He knows our players and the organization and is respected by everyone. He was a strong candidate for the head coaching job a few months ago and he is in the best position to help us through all of these issues as we begin our training camp. »
“It’s a difficult day, but I’m looking forward to this great opportunity in front of me,” said Vincent. We have a good group of guys who have worked hard to prepare for next season. My focus will be on working with our staff to prepare everyone for an exciting season. »
Vincent has been an associate coach with the Blue Jackets since 2021. He was previously the head coach of the Manitoba Moose of the American Hockey League, where he remained for five seasons.