Mike Babcock on whether he wants to remain in Detroit: 'a hundred percent'

On the cusp of one of the busiest offseasons in recent memory, the arms race to acquire proven hockey minds will be vast and fierce. 

While past winners and budding understudies are popular candidates for teams aiming to fill out their front offices with talent, speculation has begun about organizations heading straight to the source of proven commodities: Detroit.

General manager Ken Holland and head coach Mike Babcock, who combined to bring the Stanley Cup back to Detroit in 2008, are both entering the final years of their respective deals. While their track records will undoubtedly garner plenty of inquiries, the latter, at least, wants to remain with the Red Wings. 

"A hundred percent," Babcock told Nicholas J. Cotsonika of Yahoo! Sports when asked if he wants to continuing coaching the team beyond next season.

"I'm real comfortable, and I mean that, and I've said it. I'm on record," he said. "I'm comfortable in my situation. It's not like I need someone to do anything right now. I'm fine because I think our team’s going in the right direction again.”

Babcock added that should the Red Wings decide to terminate his contract, he wouldn't explore further employment opportunity until after the 2014-15 season. His daughter is set to graduate from high school next spring. 

"I ain't missing it."

Babcock has led Detroit to the postseason every year since joining the club in 2005, but recorded the worst winning percentage of his tenure this season.