Bruins Goalie Tuukka Rask Opts Out Of NHL Playoffs

BOSTON — Boston Bruins goalie Tuukka Rask has opted out of the remainder of the NHL playoffs, making the announcement less than two hours before Game 3 of its first-round series against Carolina.

Rask started the Bruins first two playoff games against the Hurricanes but decided to opt out, citing the need to be with his family.

"I want to be with my teammates competing, but at this moment there are things more important than hockey in my life, and that is being with my family," Rask said in a statement. "I want to thank the Bruins and my teammates for their support and wish them success."

Rask is among several high profile Boston sports athletes to opt out of their respective season, including New England Patriots Dont'a Hightower, Patrick Chung and Marcus Cannon.

General Manager Don Sweeney said the team is understanding of Rask's decision. He said Rask's family is safe and healthy, and there was no specific incident prompting his decision.

The Bruins will now turn to Jaroslav Halák for the remainder of their quest for the Stanley Cup inside the NHL bubble in Toronto.

Halák will be tested right away, as the team plays Game 3 at noon Saturday. The series stands tied at one game a piece.