5 possible landing spots for Mike Babcock in 2020-21

4. Calgary Flames

After earning the No. 1 seed in the Western Conference last year, with the second-most wins (50) and points (107) in franchise history in Bill Peters’ first season behind the bench, the Flames lost in the first round of the playoffs last spring and are now languishing with a 10-11-3 record this year. They have lost five games in a row entering their game against the St. Louis Blues on Thursday night, as diminished offensive output has met bad defense.

Peters was obviously not at all on the hot seat entering the season. But a rough recent stretch, and a lackluster run approaching the one-third point of the regular season, could have general manager Brad Treliving considering a change either now or at the end of the season. A quick hook like that would be a pretty major panic move, whenever it may come, but when it comes to the NHL coaching carousel and executives trying to save themselves, nothing should be totally ruled out in Calgary right now.

In theory, Babcock could step in behind the bench in Calgary before this season is over, with hopes he can spark something if Peters is fired. Peters should get the entire season to get things back on the right track. But if the team continues to underachieve, Babcock could be hired as the Flames’ new coach pretty quickly after the season is over.