Head of NHL DoPS, George Parros: “I Don’t Want the Job If…”

Many have argued that Bettman works hand-in-hand with Parros on some of these decisions. Parros noted that was not accurate. When asked if Bettman is informed or weighs in on these decisions, Parros said, “He’s not even allowed to be privy to anything I’m doing.” He added, “They leave to my own decisions, I wouldn’t have it any other way. If they are trying to influence me during the process, I don’t think that’s what anyone wants.”

Unfortunately, the inconsistencies that seem to regularly come out of that department is also not something anyone wants.

One of the biggest issues for the NHL, its players and its GM’s is that no one seems to know anymore what is worthy of a fine, a suspension or no punishment. That Wilson has a long history of suspensions and got away with a fine only seems to muddy the waters more. Parros said during the interview that if this continues to be an issue and the players and GMs want him out, he doesn’t want the job.

Right now he’s feels like he’s got the backing of the league and those that work in the department with him. But, Parros seems to be aware that the perception of the work he’s doing is changing.

Could Anyone Do This Job?

To be fair to Parros, the job he has is thankless. There’s no way he’ll get every decision right or win the popular vote when it comes time to make a choice on suspending a player or not. Every fan base, the media and the players will question why something was done, whether you throw the book at someone or you let them off the hook.

Perhaps transparency is key here and that Parros has decided to talk about the process that goes into the decision is a good first step. I, for one, had no idea Bettman was removed from the equation altogether. That’s no small aspect of how these decisions are made.