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Rask Explains What Caused Him to Leave 2019-20 NHL Bubble

Tuukka Rask confirmed with media on Wednesday the exact reason he left the NHL bubble last season.

While it was fairly well known that Tuukka Rask’s decision to leave the NHL bubble during the 2019-20 NHL playoff bubble was because of a family emergency, there continued to be speculation around his desire to play hockey in the future and how motivated he was to return. Obviously, Rask has come back to finish the final year of his contract with the Bruins this season, but he was asked if he could confirm why he left last season, which he did.

Related: Do Trade Rumors Mean Tuukka Rask is Destined to Leave Bruins?

It Was All About His Family

Rask was asked, “Was there a family emergency? Was that the reasons you left?” He responded, “Yes, that was the reason I left.” He added, “I got a phone call the night before that our daughter really wasn’t doing so well. They had to call an ambulance and everything, so you know, obviously at that point, my mind’s spinning, and I’m like, I need to get out of here.”

He adds that he went and had a conversation with GM Don Sweeney after getting the call and “we had a brief talk and I just left.”

The Bruins released statements after Rask’s departure at the time saying they fully supported his decision to go back and look after his family. From an organizational standpoint, it was the right thing to do and Rask was able to prepare this offseason for a return.

As for what happens long term, that’s still unclear. The Bruins have been shifting gears this season, moving towards a younger core and it’s not clear if Rask will remain part of their long-term plans. He needs a new contract after this season is done and is finalizing a $7 million season.

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