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Babcock plans to make coaching decision by May 20

Ron Chenoy / USA Today

Not even Mike Babcock can wait to find out where his next coaching job will be.

The Detroit Red Wings coach is moving up his self-imposed decision deadline from May 25 to May 20. He revealed the change during an interview with TSN's Darren Dreger that aired Friday.

"To be honest with you that date to me is going to be moved up," Babcock said. "When I get home from the World Championship and sit down, (I'll say) enough time already, let's get on with it. I bet you by the 20th I'm going to know what I'm doing.

"I've done enough thinking, it's time to make a decision here pretty quick."

Babcock is expected to command around $5 million per year, but he says money isn't his primary concern.

"I'm not concerned about that part because anywhere you go you're going to be paid. So I don't think that's an issue and (general manager) Ken (Holland)'s assured me of that."

Holland joined Babcock for the sit-down interview and emphasized the organization's position.

"My attitude with the Detroit Red Wings has always been that we want people in Detroit because they want to be in Detroit," Holland said.

"This is an opportunity for Mike, if he's not the best coach in the game he's on a small list of the best coaches in the game and it's an opportunity to decide that we are the best fit."

Babcock said the entire ordeal has been a bit overwhelming.

"This has been an interesting process," he told Dreger. "I brought this on myself. I've learned a ton about myself, I've learned a ton about our relationship (referring to Holland). I've learned a ton about franchises and the NHL, and it's been great. But to say it's been fun? Your head's spinning."

Babcock's contract with the Red Wings expires on June 30.

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