Babcock: Hopefuls are CEOs of their careers
COLLINGWOOD— Mike Babcock’s message to Maple Leafs prospects is clear: Work hard now, separate yourself from the pack, and, in a few years, you might make the NHL.
The team’s 57 prospects did on-ice and off-ice drills in this resort town before heading off for an afternoon of paintball. Babcock, who planned to skip the paintball, is taking in the camp to try to get to know some of the younger players while also passing on some advice.
“What’s interesting is that (Leafs centre) Peter Holland talked to the guys about getting drafted and how long it actually takes you to be an NHL player,” Babcock said. “They have to understand it’s a journey and we have to understand that too.
“You don’t rush them. You give them the time they need to enhance their opportunity to grow as people, as men and players. You do that over time, you end up with a pretty good team. It takes longer than we all want. That’s just the reality of the situation. You just plug away.”
The likes of Mitch Marner, William Nylander and Casey Bailey will tell anyone who’s willing to listen that they are NHL-ready, the reality is it will take time. And one of the tell-tale signs of a future NHLer is a willingness to work and get better.
“To me you’re the CEO of your own company, it’s not your Mom, it’s not your Dad, it’s not your agent, it’s you,” Babcock told the players. “So you have to take responsibility for where you’re going and how you’re getting there.
“I’ve been in the game a long time. I’ve coached maybe one player who didn’t want help . . .These are developmental opportunities for them. The guys who love it the most, who have a passion for it, are going to separate themselves from the group.
“All you have to do is look at the best players in our league, the true superstars. They have a will and determination and heart and soul different from the rest of the players. That’s what separates them. There are lost of good players in the league, but the guys who are truly great, they love it so much that it oozes out of them and that’s what we’re looking for when we’re watching these kids.” Kevin McGran