Babcock was given the green light to return to the league just a few days ago, after the NHL approved his return following an investigation requested by the players' union, the NHLPA.
Babcock's most recent assignment, in Columbus in 2023, lasted only a short time and he resigned before coaching a game. Several players, including former national team star Johan Franzén, have publicly said they were bullied by the now 63-year-old Babcock.
