The most wanted bench boss in hockey is less than a week from ending months of speculation.
In an interview aired on TSN Friday evening, free-agent-to-be Mike Babcock announced he will make a decision on his coaching future on or before May 20, trimming his original drop-dead date by five days.
“I’ve talked to other teams. I have an offer. Right here,” Babcock said while sitting next to his longtime boss, Detroit Red Wings general manager Ken Holland.
“I have offers. More than one.”
Although Babcock, the Red Wings’ coach since 2005, did not tip his hand on where he’ll end up – his top non-Detroit suitors reportedly include the Edmonton Oilers, Toronto Maple Leafs and Buffalo Sabres – he seemed to drop subtle hints relating to staying put.