Donald Fehr won't be taking over as the executive director of the NHL Players' Association — for now.
The former head of the Major League Baseball Players' Union has been rumored to be the replacement for Paul Kelly, but according to the bizofhockey.com, Fehr told NHL player agents Thursday that it's too soon to take the job.
Instead, Fehr will continue to work as an unpaid consultant and lead the NHLPA's search committee.
"When I [left the MLBPA], I had no intention of looking for another full-time position … if there's a change in my view I don't think that'll be a secret to anybody," Fehr told The Associated Press. "Having said that, I've had an opportunity to meet and talk to and work with a number of [NHL] players. … I must say that I find them to be quite remarkable individuals. They're bright, they care, they want to try and do the right thing. I really enjoy it."
Fehr served as head of the MLBPA (one of the strongest unions in sports) for 23 years before stepping down in 2009. Many believe that he would be a strong leader for a weak union that has struggled over the past few years.
Remember the NHL's lockout debacle?
Fehr's experience would give the faltering NHLPA some credibility and power.
"I think if we were able to have him represent us and solidify us, it would be a no-brainer," Aaron Voros, the Rangers' union representative, told the New York Daily News before Fehr spoke. "There's no question that there's so much going on in our union. … I think at this point it's basically a question of whether he wants a new challenge or not."
