Mike Babcock Watch: Potential Destinations

San Jose Sharks

Mar 29, 2015; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; San Jose Sharks goalie

(32) takes the ice before playing the Pittsburgh Penguins at the CONSOL Energy Center. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

Cherry mentioned in his recent Twitter rant that San Jose may be a good fit for Babcock. Not only are the Sharks a half-decent team, but Babcock will be given the opportunity to bring this team to the next level. They have always been stuck in the second or third round of the playoffs the past few years despite being built well enough to be Stanley Cup contenders. Last season was a huge disappointment, so they will definitely be thinking about offering Babcock something.

Although recent reports suggested that San Jose was asking permission to speak with Babcock, there are still a lot of reasons why Babcock won’t come to California. Yes, there is the great climate, but it is such a long distance from where he currently lives and it could be too much of a burden on his family. Although he did coach in California before with the Anahiem Ducks, one must remember that he actually declined an offer to stay with the team and went to Detroit.

Do the Sharks have a chance? I think they should be cautiously optimistic because there are too many obstacles to overcome. However, the Sharks’ brass has a lot of other experienced coaching options if they lose out on Babcock. Peter DeBoer, Dan Bylsma, Randy Carlyle, Paul MacLean, Ron Wilson, Craig Berube, Peter Horachek, and John Tortorella are looking for jobs.

Chance getting Babcock: 5 percent

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