Columbus Blue Jackets head coach Mike Babcock is at the center of a new controversy and has several critics, but also some allies, and one of them praised his achievements.
Today, Patrick Marleau is a player development instructor and hockey operations advisor for the San Jose Sharks and played under Babcock for two years with the Toronto Maple Leafs from 2017 to 2019. Additionally, he was one of his troops on the Canadian team during the 2010 and 2014 Olympics.
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In addition, the former hockey player seems to be well aware of the coach’s sometimes strange methods, as he admitted to the Bay Area News Group this week that he has already had to show him some photos from his cell phone, as was the case with the jackets . However, in his eyes, this experience was positive.
“It’s just a chance for everyone to get to know each other – the families and the players – and hear about their experiences. I think it strengthens the bond,” he said, adding that the images he was asked for at the time were sent to a member of the organization for presentation purposes.
“So I’m assuming he did the exact same thing here, even though I don’t know any more than any of you,” he said. It’s a good way to get to know your teammates.”
Marleau then recalled Babcock’s influence during part of his career.
“I needed someone to advocate for me to get me a spot on those Olympic teams. I’m pretty sure he was one of the guys who batted for me. Our relationship in Toronto was also good, he said. I played a role with the younger players and was always able to perform at my best on the ice.”
In two years with the Leafs, the former center collected 84 points in 144 games.