Mike Babcock Decision Met In Detroit With Warmth Cold Slap Of Reality

Not surprisingly, wish your long-time coach well in his rich new job. Then, find a replacement.

While most signs point to Jeff Brashill moving up from AHL Grand Rapids, Holland is smart enough to consider his options. And with Babcock agreeing to an eight-year, $50 million contract with the Toronto Maple Leafs, Holland was both a class act and a realist.

Holland scheduled a news conference in Detroit following news of Babcock’s decision. He wished Babcock well and added a caveat to brighten a gloomy Motown day.

“Our goal is to beat Mike.”

Blashill is among candidates Holland and crew plan to interview in the days ahead. Another? Dan Bylsma, who coached the Pittsburgh Penguins to a Stanley Cup by beating the Wings in the 2009 finals. Expect three max, starting with Blashill, whose team is in the AHL’s Calder Cup playoffs.

Other tidbits emerged from the media chat:

Anyone assuming Holland had Blashill on a string found out otherwise. And as for Babcock …