In a surprise move, the National Hockey League (NHL) has cleared Mike Babcock, the former Toronto Maple Leafs head coach, to return to the sport after a tumultuous three-year hiatus. Babcock's departure from the Maple Leafs in 2019 was marked by controversy, including allegations of emotional manipulation and a $1 million buyout. The NHL's decision to lift its ban on Babcock comes as a significant development in the world of professional hockey, where the 61-year-old coach is widely regarded as one of the sport's top tacticians. With his return to coaching now cleared, speculation is mounting about which team will be the first to capitalize on Babcock's expertise.

NHL clears Mike Babcock for return to coaching  ESPN