The Leafs landed the most impactful free agent of the off-season and it isn't even July 1.
On Wednesday, the Leafs signed Mike Babcock to an 8-year, $50 million deal to become the 30th head coach in franchise history.
The Leafs apparently swooped in at the last moment of negotiations and signed Babcock after it looked almost certain as if the Buffalo Sabres would sign the highly sought after coach. There are tears in Buffalo, for sure.
Babcock now becomes the highest paid coach in the NHL by a wide margin, and for good reason.