from Eric Duhatschek of the Globe and Mail,

One thought: The Leafs are still definitely in the playoff hunt; so while surely the outline of a long-range plan is in place, they still need to see a number of dominoes fall between now and the next off-season to see what happens next. How did they finish? Did they make the playoffs? Were they any signs of progress? Is a change coming at the GM’s level, if there wasn’t? Are any core players on the move?

Beyond their internal decision-making, there will also be external forces at play which the Leafs can’t control.

Babcock may elect to stay in Detroit, because of his loyalty to owner Mike Illitch and general manager Ken Holland; and because the Red Wings are never afraid to pay top dollar, be it for player or managerial talent. McLellan’s Sharks could make the playoffs and go on a long run, in which case a contract extension, not a pink slip, would be in his future.

If one or both come available, then they would rocket to the top of the Shanahan’s list of candidates for next summer. The more interesting question then might be what happens if both end up seeking new opportunities. Demand for their services would be high all around the league, but if the Leafs had a real choice between Babcock and McLellan, you wonder, who would be tops on the list? The answer might surprise you.

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