Now before everyone starts with the whole Thomas vs. Rask debate, let me remind you that although Rask's numbers have been outstanding (10-3-2 record, 1.85 GAA, .935 SV%), and he certainly deserves a hefty chunk of playing time (maybe as high as 1/3 of the workload), Tim Thomas has been far from awful. Thomas is the Vezina winner, not Rask.
It's still December, and it isn't time to be messing with about the only aspect of the team that's been satisfactory. Thomas has been a bit off. Perhaps partly due to injury, partly due to inconsistent playing time (doubtful, considering his personal history as an off-and-on goalie), and partly due to the NHL having a book on him.
Next time Thomas plays, just watch where the rebounds go. Goalies in the NHL are so amazingly good, that they are not only able to stop shots, but also to position themselves to direct rebounds to relatively safe areas (the corners). Thomas' rebounds have been big, and right up into the slot. That's dangerous.
When the weather's warmer and it's almost the playoffs, then it'll be time for the decision on Rask vs. Thomas. It's ridiculous to rotate goalies in the post-season. So for now, I'm sure Julien will rotate them. And that's exactly what he should do.
Flyers vs. Bruins in Fenway tomorrow, in case you hadn't heard. NBC, 1 pm.
Source:
ESPN
Photo Credit:
AP Photo/Elise Amendola
