Yes, but we had our very vocal, foot in mouth Devellano publicly saying this cannot go on for very long because it affects a lot of other people.
To me, that says he (and perhaps others) were not pleased that Babs rebuffed them last summer and is now entertaining other offers to see if anything is more intriguing.
I don't think the Wings are accustomed to being kept waiting, even if Holland is letting Babs do exactly that.
There's a bit of pride in this franchise, and no, they shouldn't get into a bidding war. This isn't the same situation you had when all they needed was a tweak or two to the roster and a top coach like when Babs joined in 2005.
Agree, just pointing out it would seem Holland has been the most patient and accommodating to Babcock in this process.
I said last summer we should not engage in this. I have been disappointed where it went. I understood why they would do it, but I have been ready to move on for a couple years. Glad it ended on a higher note (if it has) where Babcock was a little better the last two years.
Still it is a privilege to coach this team and be a part of this organization. I am sure those feelings cropped up again during this process. When it was clear he wanted to look I don't think they thought much of it. But once they started watching it happen I bet it drove several of them a little crazy. Not over fear of rejection but flat out annoyance.
People now will say sour grapes, but most seem to indicate they weren't all that flexible on moving their negotiation points. I think perhaps several in the Wings organization were interested in moving on and this process hammered home the point. Holland was left as one of his few big defenders, trying to still deliver Babcock in the fold when he probably shouldn't have. Something he is universally criticized for when it is a player that yes brought us glory but hasn't lived up to what he should deliver for the last several years, Babs is no different only this time he actually angered the owner and some in management.
Turn the page, the Wings will be fine. I hope Babcock doesn't ruin Eichel's chances at becoming the best American player ever. Sadly I can already see the Canadian spin on why he is that great and it makes me want to well...