Somewhat surprising, because no question he could've written his own cheques in Toronto, who's express reason for giving Carlyle a 1 year extension before this year was to get in on Babcock. But TO is too much of a gong show, too many politics back and forth with the owners and upper level execs there...never mind the prying, cutthroat media turning every sneeze into a front page story and debate. Philly, there was Synder, of course, pulling his strings.
I don't think Edmonton was even an option, but you ask Oiler fans today I am sure they will tell you it was Chirelli that turned down Babcock, while riding his unicorn. Hopefully McLellan comes to his senses when he gets back to North America and doesn't waste a couple years of his career up north.
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