Report: Mike Babcock supportive of new Leafs coach Sheldon Keefe

Mike Babcock and Sheldon Keefe spent over four years together in the Toronto Maple Leafs organization and even though the former is no longer with the team, he will still show support for his replacement.

On his way out, the now-former head coach reportedly had a "pleasant conversation" with Keefe, according to Sportsnet’s Chris Johnston.

“He was great,” Keefe said without going into much detail.

Babcock also sent a text to the new bench boss, congratulating him on his first NHL win against the Arizona Coyotes on Nov. 21.

Coming from a traditional background and fighting his way through the coaching ranks makes it a fair bit easier for Babcock to show some appreciation for Keefe’s journey.

With the new coach waiting in the wings of the AHL and having a lengthy professional relationship with GM Kyle Dubas, this transition from Babcock to Keefe was inevitable.

If the winning ways that the Leafs have experienced under Keefe continue, it sounds like Babcock will be happy with the team’s success.

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