Tuuka Rask Headed For Surgery, Provides Update on Playing Future

Boston Bruins netminder Tuukka Rask is set to become an unrestricted free-agent this summer and has made it known Boston is the only place he wants to play hockey.

In addition to saying it is Bruins or no one, Tuukka Rask said he wants to play next year -- but will undergo surgery for a torn labrum in his hip. Would be out until January or February.

— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) June 11, 2021

Rask being out until February potentially puts a damper into the Bruins plans as they will need to be creative under the salary cap. They have a number of free agents up for renewal, including Taylor Hall and David Krejci. Rookie Jeremy Swayman has shown he's capable of handling the load until Rask is healthy and Jaroslav Halak is also a free-agent. Look for the Bruins to either re-sign Halak in the meantime, or find another veteran who can provide a security blanket.

As for Rask, the 34-year-old battled these Stanley Cup playoffs as he was not healthy and grinded through his injury. He still managed to put up some fine numbers with a 2.36GAA in the postseason, along with a .919 save%. It's likely he re-signs in Boston on a two to three year contract extension and begins to mentor Swayman for the future. For now, he's going to rehab his hip.

Photo credit:   Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports