John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports
Just a few days after the Detroit Red Wings gave head coach Mike Babcock permission to speak with other NHL teams, the first team has taken the bait. The Toronto Maple Leafs have stood up and made it known that they are heavily interested in hiring one of the most recognizable faces in hockey. Babcock is no doubt in my mind one of the best coaches in the world and the perfect candidate for the Maple Leafs’ vacant coaching position.
Without a head coach or general manager, the Maple Leafs front managing staff includes president Brendan Shanahan, statistics guru and assistant general manager Kyle Dubas and former general manager of the London Knights in the OHL Mark Hunter. The three have stepped up and become the first NHL club to acquire permission from the Red Wings to speak with Babcock.
The rumors of the Leafs’ interest in Babcock began two years ago if he were to become a free agent, which he will now on July 1. In addition to acquiring the rights to speak with Babcock, the Maple Leafs also have to forfeit a third-round draft pick in order to pursue one of the most sought after coaches on the market.
Along with plan A, the Maple Leafs are also ready to start on plan B. The team’s front office is preparing to interview former San Jose Sharks bench boss Todd McLellan. McLellan mutually parted ways with the Sharks organization after missing the playoffs this season. Prior to his stint with the Sharks, McLellan served as Babcock’s assistant coach with the Red Wings from 2005-08, winning a Stanley Cup in the 2007-08 season.
The Maple Leafs have begun what is going to be a busy offseason for the organization. The team is entering its first season of a rebuild and are looking to hire the perfect fit at head coach. The Maple Leafs would like to have a coach in place before the NHL Draft in June and when free agency opens July 1.
Both Babcock and McLellan would be a good fit for the Maple Leafs. Both coaches have plenty of experience and have been successful in building young prospects in the minors, as well as coaching at the highest level. If the Maple Leafs could land either of these two coaches, it would already be a huge step in the right direction for the organization.
