Babcock resigns as Columbus coach amid inquiry

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MIKE BABCOCK RESIGNS AS COACH OF COLUMBUS BLUE JACKETS * ESPN Sep 17, 2023, 04:21 PM ET Mike Babcock resigned as coach of the Columbus Blue Jackets on Sunday, with the team announcing in a statement that the move is effective immediately.
"This was a difficult decision on everyone's part, but one we felt necessary to ensure our focus remains on the players and the team's upcoming season," Blue Jackets general manager Jarmo Kekalainen said.
"On behalf of the entire Blue Jackets organization, we want to thank Mike for his hard work and the professionalism he has shown in working together on a plan to step down."
"Upon reflection, it has become clear that continuing as head coach of the Columbus Blue Jackets was going to be too much of a distraction," Babcock said in the team's release.