In the excitement following the Bruins' 4-2 victory over the Blackhawks in the NHL's annual Winter Classic, Tuukka Rask took a moment to reflect on the event, potentially hinting at his future plans.
"This might be my last outdoor game, you never know," said Rask when asked about the experience of playing in the Winter Classic.
"It's a great experience to get the result. The next one, when it happens, maybe I'll be sitting up in the press box drinking beer, who knows."
Part of Rask's comments were likely an appreciation for how rare the opportunity to play outside in venues like Notre Dame in the NHL. But could they hint at something more?
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This season has been a struggle for Rask, no doubt about it. The pitchforks were out in force in Boston when Jaroslav Halak was thoroughly outplaying Rask, the incumbent goaltender from the last several years. He also took a personal leave of absence earlier in the season, and has played at a higher level since.
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Might Rask be contemplating retirement? He's been a quality goalie for the Bruins since taking over at the start of the 2013 season, but has yet to help deliver a championship, and has felt the full wrath of unhappy Boston sports fans on more than one occasion.
The Bruins have played in three Winter Classics since its inception, and Rask was starting goaltender for two of them. It may be a while until Boston gets another chance, which could also be the source of Rask's thoughts that this may be his last one.
No matter what lay behind his postgame comments, Bruins fans will be content if he keeps up the high level of play he showed on Tuesday, notching 36 saves in their win over the Blackhawks.
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