Ex-NHLer in support of Mike Babcock getting a second chance in the NHL

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Mike Armenti
August 23, 2023 (10:48)

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With former Leafs, Red Wings, Ducks coach Mike Babcock returning to an NHL bench in October for the first time in approximately four years, there are plenty who feel he doesn't deserve to be there. On the flip side, there are some that believe in second chances, former NHLer Brad May being among them.

May recently appeared on the Raw Knuckles podcast and was asked about Babcock's return. There's been a lot of talk about how excited the players in Columbus are for the chance to play under Babcock. May said he has personally spoken to members of the Columbus Blue Jackets and can confirm that excitement.

"Here's the reason why they're excited; they're going to become better players. Babs is a hell of a coach, he's very prepared, maybe a little bit of an inability to connect to some of his players, and I'm sure over the last few years, there's a come to Jesus moment, where, 'hey I gotta treat people differently, the old school's out.'"

Babcock was fired as head coach of the Toronto Maple Leafs in November of 2019. It was the first time in his career that he had been fired and may very well have been a sobering moment for the veteran bench boss. Following his dismissal, stories started to come out regarding his treatment of players while with the Leafs. Then, other stories from players on other teams he had coached emerged as well.

May said Babcock deserves another chance, as does anyone who did something wrong that is truly trying to be better.

"If you do the steps necessary and you have the ability, are we all not looking for a second chance?. If my answer was no, Mike Babcock shouldn't be a coach in the NHL ever again, that's the most ignorant thing to say, in my opinion."

May played under Babcock during a one-season stint with Detroit. If one former player is willing to give him a second chance, then perhaps we should give him the benefit of the doubt and allow him to show that he has changed.

Source: TheHockeyNews.com