Mike Babcock is stepping back into the hockey spotlight on Sunday, though not in the way he was accustomed to for 30-plus years.
In fact, it’s the first time in 33 years Babcock isn’t behind the bench as a coach.
The time away from the game has been “spectacular,’’ Babcock said. He and his wife Maureen travelled last year before COVID stopped the world and have since enjoyed spending time with their three grown kids.
“We’ve had an unbelievable time to tell you the truth, and really embraced the opportunity to enjoy life,’’ Babcock said Tuesday.
Babcock, 57, also had a blast helping out with University of Vermont hockey coach Todd Woodcroft. “Coaching the coaches,’’ is how Babcock described his volunteer gig.
He’s now looking forward to his new part-time gig with NBC starting Sunday, his re-entry into the NHL spotlight after being fired by the Toronto Maple Leafs…
