Tuuka Rask is among the most intriguing free agents left on the market, though it's widely rumored that he will still be in front of the net for the Boston Bruins by the time the 2021-22 NHL season rolls around. Perhaps the more complicated matter when it comes to Rask is when exactly can he get back on the ice and play after going under the knife to repair a torn hip labrum injury.

In an appearance Wednesday on Boston-area radio WEEI FM, Rask hinted at a possible return date to action.

“I'll be ready to go probably around Christmas time, January,” Rask said. “So hopefully I can start skating here in a month and a half or so and then progress from there and be ready to go in January.”

And to reinforce the notion that he would be sticking with the Bruins, Rask expressed his preference for playing for just one team.

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“I played with one team when I was in Finland (Ilves Tampere), I have been so lucky to be part of only one team in the NHL,” Rask said. “For me, it's about that pride of playing for one team and one team only. I have no reason to chase the money anymore and go somewhere else. It's going to be one of those things where the Bruins are my home, Boston is my home. I've always wanted to play here, wanted to stay here. So the money won't be an issue. We had a conversation with (Bruins general manager Don Sweeney) and I will be a cheap goalie for them.”

The 34-year-old Rask sustained the injury during the 2021 Stanley Cup Playoffs, which is also likely making it a bit difficult for him to gain interest from other teams in free agency.

Last season, Rask went 15-5-2 in 24 starts for the Bruins and finished the regular season with a .913 SV% and 2.28 GAA.