Boston Bruins: An extension during the season could be in Tuukka Rask’s future
By James Gatlin
Entering this season, Tuukka Rask had an uncertain future. The Boston Bruins‘ number one goalie is in the last year of his deal and has spent his whole career in Boston.
While the Bruins have gotten off to a solid start, Rask has struggled at times in his contract year. After allowing a season-high six goals on February 26th, the veteran netminder has been in vintage form in his last two games. As the Bruins have gotten healthier, Rask’s play has improved, and his future has become clearer.
In Rask’s last two starts, he has faced 49 shots and only allowed three goals. On Wednesday night, the Bruins lost in a shootout, but Rask kept Boston in the game. As the Bruins’ offense struggled, he made save after save to put Boston in a position to salvage a point.
In 12 games this season, Rask has posted a .902 save percentage and 2.56 goals-against average. The former first-round pick has faced 346 shots and allowed 34 goals. Although his numbers are not up to his usual standards, he is in the midst of his best stretch so far this season.
The Boston Bruins could extend Tuukka Rask during the season.
Additionally, during an intermission of Wednesday’s game, NBC reporter Bob McKenzie revealed that the Bruins are open to discussing a new contract with their franchise goalie during the season. The Bruins do have promising prospects in Jeremy Swayman and Dan Vladar; however, they are not ready to be a No.1 goalie in the NHL right now.
According to McKenzie:
"“All things considered, the veteran goaltender Rask and the veteran Halak may be getting contracts before the end of the season if that’s the way they want to go.”"
As the B’s await an indication from Rask, his main focus will be on continuing his current play.
Rask is still a top tier-goaltender, and he has shown that of late. In Boston’s last two games, he has made timely saves and controlled rebounds. He is also on the verge of history as his next win will be the 300th in his career. The Bruins’ netminder will become the 37th goalie in NHL history to reach that mark and first in franchise history.
Next. Boston Bruins: Looking at a trade for Taylor Hall. dark
As Boston looks to move up in the standings, they will need Rask at his best. Over the past two years, a key part of their success has been his performance. While the Bruins have yet to discuss a new deal with the winningest goaltender in franchise history, it appears that those conversations may not be far away.