from Mike Brophy of CBC,

I spoke with a former NHL ref, who asked that his name not be included in this story, and he talked about life as a big-league official at this time of the season, when every call and non-call seems so critical to the outcome of a game and, hence, a series.

The ref wanted to assure all hockey fans there is no conspiracy to determine the outcome of games.

"The biggest misconception is that the officials would have some vested interest in the outcome," he said. "One thing we always say is the guys in stripes are the only ones on the ice that don't care who wins.

"There is extra coverage with all the networks covering the games, which is great for hockey. But it does add extra focus on the officiating, for sure."

The fact of the matter is refs and linesmen, like the players, are trying to be as good as they can be so they continue working. Only the best among them advance through three rounds to the Stanley Cup final.

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