Mike Babcock will be getting plenty of phone calls from suitors when his contract with the Detroit Red Wings expires at the end of this season.
The Red Wings, however, want to make sure that doesn’t happen and reportedly have sent at least one “firm offer” for him to stay in Detroit. According to The Hockey News, Babcock has turned down the offer.
Publicly, Babcock and general manager Ken Holland have downplayed contract negotiations to avoid any distractions during the regular season. In fact, Babcock didn’t even touch the topic when asked about it.
“My situation is great,” Babcock said via The Hockey News. “I’m in love with my wife and I have three great kids at home and I coach the Red Wings. I’m from Saskatoon and I love my life. See you guys.”
Babcock likely will become the highest-paid head coach in the NHL no matter where he ends up next season, and he’ll probably love his life even more once that happens.
But for now, it seems like his only goal is to help the Red Wings win hockey games.
Photo via Dennis Wierzbicki/USA TODAY Sports Images
