Mike Babcock issues a lengthy and direct response to Mark Messier
Photo credit: Kyle Robertson-USA TODAY NETWORK
Edmonton Oilers head coach Mike Babcock has officially responded to Mark Messier's harsh comments about his hiring and how it affects the players.
Mark Messier did not have the kindest words for Mike Babcock earlier this week, and now, the Oilers head coach is responding to the noise.
Mike Babcock on Mark Messier
According to Michael Menzies, Babcock was very kind and considerate towards Messier, acknowledging his role as a leader in Edmonton.
One of these teams is Team Messier, right? So he won 4 Cups [sic] here. I'm younger than him. When I watched him, hard leader, 2-way, competitive. Went to New York, worked hard, 2-way, competitive. Real leader.
Furthermore, Babcock stated that he has met Messier before, and the man was always nice to him.
I've dealt with him 2 times in my life. One time we were getting presented Olympic gold medals here, and he ran around. I think my daughter was 7 or 8 then. He treated us great. Another time was at the Hall of Fame thing. He treated me great. Like I said, Mark Messier is a legend here. Is it ESPN that he does? Is that the one? He does great on that. I have nothing but respect for him.
Clearly, he was taking the high road.
Mike Babcock hears the noise
Lastly, Babcock said that he can't let anyone's opinion affect him other than his family's. Otherwise, it could drive him nuts.
I got up this morning, my deer pictures were right there. I had like about 1,000 of them I had to delete. That's my social media. My dad had this unbelievable line. He said, son, if your knees hit my kitchen table, I probably care what you think. In other words, it's your family and the people around you. The rest is just noise, man. I've been doing this a long time.
Only time will tell whether or not the Babcock circus grows old in Edmonton.
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