Holland spoke to Blashill, won't announce a new coach until AHL Griffins are done

All signs continue to point towards Jeff Blashill becoming the next head coach of the Detroit Red Wings.

During Game 3 of the AHL Western Conference Final game Thursday in Grand Rapid, general manager Ken Holland told a local TV station that he has spoken to Blashill - who is currently coaching the Griffins - but won't announce any hiring until the minor-league club is out of the playoffs.

Blashill emerged as the consensus favorite to land the gig once Mike Babcock made his departure official.

Grand Rapids lost Game 3, putting them down in their series against the Utica Comets by a margin of 2-1.

Should they fail to advance to the Calder Cup Final, an official announcement could be made as early as next week.