Peter Chiarelli Shoots Down Any Potential Tim Thomas Trade Rumors, Says He's 'Not Trading' Bruins Goalie

Peter Chiarelli Shoots Down Any Potential Tim Thomas Trade Rumors, Says He’s ‘Not Trading’ Bruins Goalie

by Ricky Doyle on Mon, Jan 30, 2012 at 6:05PM

If you think there's even a remote chance that Tim Thomas will be dealt this season, think again.

Bruins general manager Peter Chiarelli shot down any trade rumors in an e-mail to TSN hockey insider Pierre LeBrun.

"Not trading him," Chiarelli reportedly said. "I have not talked to anyone and I don't plan to."

Chiarelli's support for his goaltender comes on the heels of rumors that the Bruins could look to trade Thomas in the wake of the veteran's decision to skip the team's White House visit. Some pundits felt that Boston may elect to go with backup Tuukka Rask, who is playing fantastic this season, and then deal Thomas for depth at other positions.

Chiarelli's message couldn't be any more clear, though. If the Bruins are to repeat as Stanley Cup champions, expect the All-Star netminder to be the one to bring them there.