Another former Detroit Red Wings player shares another awful Mike Babcock story

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Josh Tupper
August 6, 2024 (9:55 PM)

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Another day and another Mike Babcock story has surfaced about how he mistreated former goalie Jimmy Howard.

Mike Babcock's coaching career in the NHL is marked by a mix of success and controversy, leaving his legacy a subject of debate among hockey fans and analysts. His achievements, including a Stanley Cup win with the Detroit Red Wings in 2008 and Olympic gold medals with Team Canada in 2010 and 2014, showcase his ability to lead teams to victory. However, his reputation has been significantly tarnished by numerous reports of his mistreatment of players and staff, culminating in his controversial exit from the NHL.

Babcock coaching record includes impressive accomplishments that highlight his tactical expertise and ability to manage elite talent. Leading the Red Wings to a Stanley Cup victory in 2008 was a pinnacle achievement, reinforcing his status as one of the league's top coaches at the time. His international success with Team Canada further solidified his reputation, as he was instrumental in guiding the team to consecutive Olympic gold medals.

Despite these successes, Babcock's coaching style has been criticized for being overly harsh and demeaning. Reports of his mistreatment of players emerged over the years, painting a picture of a coach whose methods often crossed the line. His interactions with players like Johan Franzen, Mitch Marner, and, most recently, the allegations from his former goaltender Jimmy Howard, illustrate a pattern of behavior that many consider unacceptable.

In a recent appearance on *The Cam and Strick Podcast*, Howard shared an anecdote about Babcock taking verbal jabs at him. Howard recounted how Babcock made a dismissive comment about voting for Tyler Myers for the Calder Trophy, despite Howard being a contender for the award at the time. This incident adds to the narrative of Babcock's tendency to undermine his players.

"I played along with it, taking it in stride. When we were on a trip to play the Coyotes, the year I was up for the Calder Trophy, Babcock said he'd have voted for Tyler Myers," Howard explained.

Babcock's downfall in the NHL can be attributed to a series of allegations that highlighted his questionable treatment of players and staff. Reports surfaced about his conduct with the Columbus Blue Jackets, where he allegedly asked players to share personal photos from their phones, a move that was seen as intrusive and inappropriate. This incident, among others, contributed to his departure from the league.

While Babcock may have been a skilled coach with a track record of success, his inability to adapt to modern coaching approaches and respect player boundaries ultimately overshadowed his achievements. His legacy is further complicated by accusations of mistreating arena staff and manipulating player lineups in ways that were perceived as spiteful.

Babcock's legacy in hockey will likely be remembered as a cautionary tale of a coach whose traditional methods and interpersonal issues led to his undoing. While he achieved significant success on the ice, his approach to player management and lack of empathy have left a lasting negative impression.

His career serves as a reminder of the importance of evolving coaching styles and maintaining respectful relationships with players and staff. As the NHL continues to prioritize player well-being and mental health, Babcock's story underscores the need for coaches to balance tactical prowess with emotional intelligence and compassion.

Ultimately, Babcock's legacy will be a mix of respect for his coaching acumen and criticism for his inability to adapt to a changing sports culture. While some may remember him for his achievements, others will likely focus on the controversies that defined the latter part of his career. As hockey continues to evolve, Babcock's story serves as a valuable lesson for coaches and players alike.

Source - Oilers Daily
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