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The Daily: Babcock’s Kodak Moment a Family Affair? Former Red Wings Forward Lorito Retires

Did Babcock cross a line?

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Mike Babcock
The NHL and NHLPA are investigating reports that former Red Wings coach Mike Babcock was asking his Columbus players to show their private photos.

He hasn’t been behind the bench for a single game with the Columbus Blue Jackets, but it didn’t take long for controversy to find its way into the world of former Detroit Red Wings coach Mike Babcock.

His NHL ouster came a couple of seasons back as coach of the Toronto Maple Leafs after disturbing stories about Babcock bullying players were emerging. Given a second chance this summer by the Blue Jackets, on Tuesday, a story was emerging via Spittin’ Chiclets podcast and former NHL player Paul Bissonnette that Babcock was showing photos from the players’ phones on the big screen in the coaches room.

Later, Babcock and Columbus captain Boone Jenner were issuing a joint statement suggesting that it all was harmless. Babcock was simply asking players to share family photos to help everyone get to know each other better.

That may very well prove to be the case and this will turn out to be much ado about nothing. But both the NHL and NHLPA were investigating the allegations. Because Babcock’s reputation precedes him, his every action this season will be under increasing scrutiny.

Red Wings In Case You Missed It

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  • In this behind the paywall piece, captain Dylan Larkin is part of a rich history of Michigan-born players suiting up for Detroit
  • Want to know which NHL prospects will be on display during Detroit’s NHL rookie tournament later this week? All the names are right here
  • How they’re viewing the departure of Alex DeBrincat to the Red Wings in his former NHL home of Ottawa

Red Wings Offseason

Right-winger Matt Lorito would play just two NHL games. Both were with the Red Wings in 2016-17. He was recently announcing his retirement as a player. Lorito, who was playing in Germany last season, is accepting a pro scouting position with the Anaheim Ducks. He’ll be working for former Detroit player and assistant GM Pat Verbeek, now the GM in Anaheim.

Hockey Now Network

Pittsburgh: The Pittsburgh Penguins are only participating in unofficial team skates but already, there are questions being asked.

Philadelphia: Forward Matvei Michkov, top 2023 draft pick of the Philadelphia Flyers, is going on loan to HC Sochi of the KHL.

Carolina: Veteran NHL forward Kieffer Bellows will be attending the training camp of the Carolina Hurricanes on a PTO.

Islanders: At this point, the chances that the New York Islanders will be improving upon the NHL’s third-worst power play of a year ago are appearing to be remote.

Washington: A breakdown of the top prospects playing in the Washington Capitals system.

Montreal: Some fighting words from Arber Xhekaj of the Montreal Canadiens.

Boston: In celebration of their centennial NHL season, the Boston Bruins were announcing a list of the club’s 100 best players.

Former Wolverine Suiting Up For Panthers

Florida: Former Michigan Wolverines forward Mackie Samoskevich is among the players who will be skating for the Florida Panthers on their rookie showcase squad.

Buffalo: The Buffalo Sabres announced their roster for the NHL prospects challenge tournament the team is hosting.

Chicago: Consistency in the goal crease is a big part of the prospect picture for the Chicago Blackhawks.

Colorado: An NHL scout discusses how former Red Wings forward Tomas Tatar will be fitting in with the Colorado Avalanche.

Nashville: NHL tough guy Ryan Reaves of the Toronto Maple Leafs is admitting that former Nashville Predators forward Brian McGrattan was the NHL enforcer strking the most fear into him.

Los Angeles: Will the Los Angeles Kings be able to find a power-play role for newcomer Pierre-Luc Dubois?

Vegas: Former Anaheim Ducks forward Maxime Comtois will be attending the training camp of the Stanley Cup champion Vegas Golden Knights on a PTO.

San Jose: the rebuilding plan of GM Mike Grier is wearing a familiar look for the San Jose Sharks.