AP source: Mike Babcock in contract talks with Buffalo Sabres

BUFFALO, N.Y. – Though a deal has not been completed, Detroit Red Wings coach Mike Babcock had negotiations with the Buffalo Sabres on Tuesday regarding the possibility of becoming their next head coach.

The talks took place between Babcock and Sabres general manager Tim Murray and began early in the day, a person familiar with discussions told the AP.

The person spoke on the condition of anonymity because the talks are private and the Sabres have not publicly discussed their coaching search to replace Ted Nolan, who was fired last month.

The person stressed there were still a “few more deal points” to work out, and added there was no agreement yet in place. Murray spent part of the afternoon in meetings.

Babcock, a former coach of the Spokane Chiefs, is still under contract with the Red Wings through June 30. The Red Wings, however, granted Babcock permission to speak with other teams. He visited Buffalo and met with Murray and Sabres owner Terry Pegula on May 10.

Babcock has not ruled out staying put in Detroit, and noted his family enjoys living there.