Quote:
Originally Posted by Senator Clay Davis
Then why was he choosing between 2 of the 4 worst teams in the league? I'm guessing because they offered him a blank check. I doubt he's as committed now, he's insanely rich either way, and going to Toronto shields his reputation because its such a horrible franchise. If he does poorly, so what, everyone in Toronto does. His rep survives either way, and another chance to get paid later. Smart guy.
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Two things played a part, Money and Ego.
Babcock has supposedly said behind the scenes that he felt it was his role to try and increase the pool of money for coaches around the league, this clearly does that (and makes his wallet fatter in the process).
The second part is Ego. IMO Toronto was always where he wanted to land. He feels like he can turn any team around into a contender, and knows if he can be the guy who wins the Leafs the Stanley Cup he will be a legend in the game of hockey.
I don't think Toronto protects his legacy at all...ask Ron Wilson or Randy Carlyle how that worked out. IMO this was the Risky pick, worst prospect base, and worst media market.
Buffalo, San Jose, etc all had much better future's, Toronto is kind of a mess right now and he thinks he can clean it up.