The biggest reason is familiarity. Muckalt and Whitten recruited most of the guys on the team. We don't know what the future holds and you can't let losing the best candidate in some future scenario effect the choice you make today. Now, in saying that, I am not saying that Muckalt is the best candidate, I just think he is one of the most likely, straight forward choices for Suzanne. It's hard not to like the guy if you've been around him. One of the reasons he goes near the top of the list is because I'm personally positive that he's interested in the job. There are only a handful of people on that list that I can say that about with any certainty, the rest is just speculation at this point.
Suzanne has a very difficult decision to make, her predecessor failed to choose Mel multiple times because they were afraid of what happen Monday and look where that left this program for how many years? I'd much rather have more good years and worry about the next coach after this one leaves than accept a lessor candidate because we're not afraid he'll leave for another job.
We have to accept the fact that we are a wonderful Mid-Major program in college hockey right now. That doesn't mean we can't win a national championship, but there are greener pastures for a successful coach to consider beyond MTU. We can be Gonzaga, Wichita State, or Butler, but much like them, it's inevitable that someone bigger will come along and want our coach.
You mean to tell me that Larson, Jackson, or Barr wouldn't entertain offers if UMD, UND, or Minnesota comes knocking (as an example)? We're always going to have an issue with that, even with an alum, as we learned. I just think that we'll be far happier succeeding now and being far more prepared for the departure next time.
