Nick Barden
Kyle Dubas is in an interesting situation.
On one side, he is one of the most decorated coaches in NHL history. But, on the other side, he is one of the most stubborn coaches in the NHL. It’s not about what Kyle Dubas should do ‘with’ Babcock, but what should he give him.
I don’t see Babcock going anywhere this summer and if he does get the axe, it’ll be interesting to see who replaces him. But, it’s more than likely he stays and with that, I think it’s time to see an assistant coaching change.
DJ Smith and Jim Hiller have had their fair share of chances to help this team get to the success needed to win a cup, but with how poorly the special teams have been this season, we could potentially see Smith out this summer.
Smith has been rumoured to be in contact with the Ottawa Senators for a potential head coaching job, and it’s even been rumoured he could fit in Buffalo as well. For Hiller and the Leafs sake, I feel like it’d be a good time to part ways with him as well. If you get rid of one, or two of the assistant coaches, you could make room for the possibility of bringing Sheldon Keefe up for an assistant role, as many teams are looking at him to be an NHL head coach soon.
But for me, this is the last straw for Babcock. If he does well next season, he’ll be back. If not, the Leafs might look for the answers from someone else.