Parros Defends Gudas Suspension, Open to Reviews

It's March 17th.

Here's your NHL news in two minutes.

George Perles, head of the NHL Department of Player Safety, defended the five-game suspension,

given to Anaheim Ducks' defenseman, Radco Gouda's four, needing Toronto Maple Leafs

center Austin Matthews.

The incident happened late in the second period during Toronto's 6-4 win.

Matthews suffered a great three MCL tear and quad contusion in his left leg, sidelining

him for the rest of the season.

Perles explained that his team follows a consistent process developed since 2011.

They first evaluate the play itself, then consider player history and any injury.

Gouda's got a phone hearing, which caps suspensions at five games under the collective bargaining

agreement.

Toronto players and coach Craig Barubi called the penalty two, light.

Matthews agent criticized the lack of an in-person hearing, which could have led to six games

or more.

Edminton Oilers star Conor McDavid suggested the league and players reassessed the whole

decision-making setup due to growing frustration.

Perles stood firm on the call, saying he would not change a thing.

He dismissed outside pressure from social media or agents and noted shorter suspensions

cannot be appealed.

Still, he welcomed collaborative reviews with general managers and the players' association.

No major trends in dangerous play have emerged according to Perles, and he praised players

for knowing the rules and playing responsibly.

The department remains open to improvements, if needed.

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