Toronto Maple Leafs fans (and foes) seem to be split on whether new coach and two-time Olympic gold medallist Mike Babcock will be able to breathe new life into the beleaguered Canadian franchise.
The Toronto team announced they signed Babcock on Wednesday. Following the announcement, fans spouted their theories on social media about the new team leader – some saying the highly coveted coach will be a game changer for the Maple Leafs, while others doubted his ability to rally the "boys in blue" next season.
I can't believe Babcock didn't sign with an NHL team, wow.
— Evgeni Malkin's Ego (@EvgeniMaIkinEgo)
I predict Phil Kessel doesn't improve under Babcock.
— Nick (@NightmareOnHelm)
R.I.P Mike Babcock, your winning days are over
— Ben-jamin (@BenCoram88)
Now we need to put together some solid players together to give him a team he can work with and mold.
— Stilez (@stilez)
Live look in on the .
— Bobby Mason (@325_Hawks)
Babcock scowled a lot when he was coaching a winning team. That guys face is going to be stuck like that after a few months with the
— Patrick Delaney (@patrickfdelaney)
Other fans including Toronto Mayor John Tory, however, seemed more hopeful the Ontario-born head coach will be able to lead the Maple Leafs to a more successful season after a disappointing one that saw the team finish fourth-last in the league.
the Leafs will make the playoffs and their will be changes its that simple
— Rob (@R3APER_)
Welcome to Mike Babcock - looking forward to seeing you behind the bench
— John Tory (@JohnTory)
My vacation got a bit better now that the hired MB!! Looking forward to the new season! Go Leafs Go!!!!
— Christos Floros (@ChrisFloros)
Leafs finally did something decent!!!
— Carter Collins (@CarterrCollins)