Top 3 Destinations for Mike Babcock
Finally the Detroit Red Wings have given permission for head coach Mike Babcock to begin speaking to other teams. This news has caused a wave of disillusion over Michigan because after taking home the Stanley Cup in 2008- he has become a fan favourite! But where would be the best destination for this man? Here are my top 3 choices for M.B
Toronto Maple Leafs
This one is by far the bookies favourite and many were speculating this one as early as last season. As an Ontario boy at heart, this one will no doubt be in the front of Babcock's mind! But although this project may have long term potential, surely it is too much of a short term risk? The Leafs are currently going through yet another rip up and rebuild operation by Brendan Shanahan and I feel there is too much work needed to get where Babcock wants to go. Also lest we forget, the Leafs fans are not forgiving of lack of progress (no matter how many years running) and should he take the job- M.B should expect jersey's to be thrown onto the ice soon.
San Jose Sharks
A team forever on the fringe, taking this role could finally put the Sharks into better infested waters. They have good core attacking team with Joe Thornton, Logan Couture, Joe Pavelski and young gun Tomas Hertl. This California side has also featured in the playoffs 4 times in the last five years, which Babcock is accustomed to. For many experts they are a second tier side who barely squeaks by, but I sense that under the right leadership they could be a real contender. With free agency coming up, this might be one side that needs to strike when the iron is hot.
Philadelphia Flyers
After a nightmare season which saw the the little inspired Philly side limped home, Babcock could provide the ultimate lift. Players such as Claude Giroux seemed to be looking around for guidance last season, which old coach Craig Berube seemed unable to provide! Babcock is a respected and fearless leader which the Flyers will need. With a dedicated fan base and a decent side to build a team around, I feel this would be a stronger option for Babcock than T.O! It may take a season or two, but I can foresee the Flyers doing well under his leadership.
Toronto Maple Leafs
This one is by far the bookies favourite and many were speculating this one as early as last season. As an Ontario boy at heart, this one will no doubt be in the front of Babcock's mind! But although this project may have long term potential, surely it is too much of a short term risk? The Leafs are currently going through yet another rip up and rebuild operation by Brendan Shanahan and I feel there is too much work needed to get where Babcock wants to go. Also lest we forget, the Leafs fans are not forgiving of lack of progress (no matter how many years running) and should he take the job- M.B should expect jersey's to be thrown onto the ice soon.
San Jose Sharks
A team forever on the fringe, taking this role could finally put the Sharks into better infested waters. They have good core attacking team with Joe Thornton, Logan Couture, Joe Pavelski and young gun Tomas Hertl. This California side has also featured in the playoffs 4 times in the last five years, which Babcock is accustomed to. For many experts they are a second tier side who barely squeaks by, but I sense that under the right leadership they could be a real contender. With free agency coming up, this might be one side that needs to strike when the iron is hot.
Philadelphia Flyers
After a nightmare season which saw the the little inspired Philly side limped home, Babcock could provide the ultimate lift. Players such as Claude Giroux seemed to be looking around for guidance last season, which old coach Craig Berube seemed unable to provide! Babcock is a respected and fearless leader which the Flyers will need. With a dedicated fan base and a decent side to build a team around, I feel this would be a stronger option for Babcock than T.O! It may take a season or two, but I can foresee the Flyers doing well under his leadership.
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