Sutherland’s MO is that he produces drama. The league seems to like that, but based upon his ‘lack of awareness‘, ‘fairness‘ or ‘honest game management’ as a referee, many hockey-fans feel he’s got ‘no business’ being gifted these games or being ranked so high. Senior officials are NOT necessarily the best. Why not let the league’s players rank ‘em instead?
I believe given the option of ‘black-balling‘ an official or 2 from working in the SC-Final, many teams/coaches would take a pass on him.
After reviewing Zebra #11’s on-ice work, it’s far from controversial to say, he’s no where near the league’s best.