Addressing rumors that Tim Thomas’s sabbatical might not actually be about “friends, family and faith”, agent Bill Zito said the decision wasn’t about a power struggle with the Bruins organization.
“It didn’t have anything to do with a contract or trade,” Zito told the Boston Globe. “It did not.”
Despite Zito’s claims, there are those figuring Thomas’ motives for sitting out 2012-13 are mostly hockey related.
More, from Joe Haggerty of CSNNE.com:
The truth might just be that Thomas has lost that loving feeling in Boston, and is trying to control what happens to him next.
The veteran goaltender went into this season knowing the Bruins could deal him once his no-movement clause expires on July 1, and perhaps he formulated a plan to put into place if he saw the writing on the wall.
Thomas was stung by the lack of loyalty and the trade rumors that leaked out from the Bruins two years ago, and he wasn’t going to allow himself to become the team’s trade pawn once again.
That’s the theory anyway.
Whether intentional or not, Thomas has definitely taken control of the situation with this unorthodox -- and essentially unprecedented -- move.
Related:
If this is the end for Tim Thomas, what’s his legacy?
Does Vokoun signing force Leafs to look at Luongo?
Seguin on Thomas’ departure: “I haven’t lost any respect for him. I’ll miss him”