Bruins goalie ‘unfriends’ NHL to reconnect with ‘three F’s’

Tim Thomas has confirmed that he plans to take a year away from hockey. The Bruins goalie broke the news Sunday on his Facebook page: 

“At the age of 38, I believe it is time to put my time and energies into those areas and relationships that I have neglected. That is why at this time I feel the most important thing I can do in my life is to reconnect with the three F’s. 

Friends, Family, and Faith.”

Along with a shout out to God, Thomas also used the announcement to give a nod to his sponsors:

 “I will continue to train using the ARP/POV system www.ultrafitevosport.com and work with G-Form www.g-form.com in the development of protective equipment.”

No doubt the decision will inspire plenty of armchair analysis in the days to come. As for the instant variety, here are some highlights:

David Shoalts, the Globe and Mail: 

“Forgive me if I take the news the Boston Bruins goaltender is going to take next season off with a grain of salt the size of the chip on Thomas’s shoulder. The evidence screams otherwise. On the face of it, it’s a ridiculous decision. Thomas did not make the NHL for good until he was 31 years old. He has seven full seasons under his belt and now, at the age of 38, thinks he can afford to take a year off?

Bruce Garrioch, The Toronto Sun: 

First, Tim Thomas refused to go to the White House with his Boston Bruins teammates last January to meet President Barack Obama. Now, he’s threatening to not show up at all next season. Rest assured, the next time Thomas stops a puck, if he ever does again in the NHL, it won’t be for the Bruins because his days in Beantown are numbered.

Obnoxious Boston, Boston.com:

After age 38, the only athletes who improve over time are knuckleballers and NASCAR drivers. Goalies, quarterbacks and shooting guards trend in the other direction. There’s no denying Thomas slipped between the pipes this season. At times, it appeared his heart wasn’t in it. If that’s the case, be thankful he’s getting out now.