Babcock Reportedly In Contract Talks With Buffalo Sabres Over $5M Per Season Offer
BUFFALO, N.Y. (AP/CBS Detroit) — A person familiar with the discussions tells The Associated Press that Mike Babcock is in contract talks with the Buffalo Sabres to potentially become their next head coach.
The person said negotiations were taking place by phone between Babcock and Sabres general manager Tim Murray on Tuesday afternoon. The person spoke on the condition of anonymity because the talks are private.
Babcock is still under contract with the Detroit Red Wings through June 30. The Red Wings, however, have granted Babcock permission to speak with other teams. He visited Buffalo and met with Murray and Sabres owner Terry Pegula on May 10.
Babcock has not ruled out staying put in Detroit, and said he wanted to make a decision on his future by Wednesday.
As this news emerged, thescore.com reported the Sabres are opening their wallet to Babcock, reportedly offering him in the range of $5 million per season.
The site added the Red Wings have reportedly offered him an extension worth $3.25 million a year.
The Buffalo News reported the best chance for Babcock to stay in Detroit comes "if he decides he doesn't have the patience required to join the Sabres. Though the hardest part of Buffalo's rebuild is likely behind the team after consecutive last-place finishes, the Sabres will still struggle to make the playoffs until their prospects get their footing."
