Report: Flyers Have Not Asked Permission to Interview Babcock

If the Flyers are going to be hiring Mike Babcock, they'll be one of those mystery teams.

According to a report, the Flyers have not even asked permission to speak with the winningest coach in Red Wings history. The Edmonton Oilers also appear to be "out" on Babcock. Just four teams appear to be vying for his services: Toronto, Buffalo, St. Louis and San Jose. Add a return to Detroit and the Flyers look as if they aren't interested in one of the hottest coaching candidates available.

The report comes as a total shock as the Flyers were a "popular pick" by many to land Babcock to fill their vacancy, while the Oilers are set to hire former Sharks head coach Todd McLellan as their next head coach.

Flyers general manager Ron Hextall must have his sights set on another candidate, or he didn't think his team was attractive enough to compete with other clubs. He is on record in saying that he'd like to have a head coach in place by the NHL Entry Level Draft in June.

The Red Wings are said to have offered Babcock a four year deal worth $3.25 million per season, but the speculation is that Babcock could net in excess of $5 million per season on the open market.

Babcock is expected to make his decision some time this week.

--PG