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Red Wings Babcock Says Decision On Contract Coming As Soon As Wednesday

By Ashley Dunkak
@AshleyDunkak

CBS DETROIT - After the Tampa Bay Lightning eliminated the Detroit Red Wings from the NHL playoffs, Red Wings general manager Ken Holland said that he expected a contract decision from head coach Mike Babcock by the end of May.

In an interview Friday with TSN, Babcock said the decision could come as early as Wednesday.

"I bet you by the 20th I'm going to know what I'm doing," Babcock said. "This has been an interesting process. I brought this on myself. I've learned a ton about myself, I've learned a ton about [his relationship with Holland], I've learned a ton about franchises and the NHL, and it's been great, but to say it's been fun - your head's spinning."

Babcock said immediately after Detroit's season ended that money and power will not be key factors in his decision. Most important, he said, would be the opportunity to win and the input of his family.

The St. Louis Blues, Buffalo Sabres, San Jose Sharks and Toronto Maple Leafs have requested to speak with Babcock, according to MLive.

Babcock's contract expires at the end of June, and the Red Wings granted him permission to explore his options before deciding whether to re-sign with Detroit. Holland said he has made it clear to Babcock that the organization wants him back.

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