The Blue Jackets appear to be in a holding pattern to name a new head coach they’ve already picked.
According to Sportsnet, Mike Babcock will be named the 11th head coach in Blue Jackets history.
The holdup, according to TSN, is an eight-year, $50 million contract that Babcock signed in 2015 to coach the Toronto Maple Leafs. The contract doesn’t end until July 1, which coincides with the NHL’s start of free agency. After it expires, Babcock will be a free agent who can sign with a new team without interference from the Maple Leafs.