This thread is chilling.
Someone doesn't deserve empathy because he has money?
Of course they do.
I would say, Rask has been very well recompensed through the years, and has always had superb defense in front of him.
When I first heard about this -- from Avalanche fans in CO where I work -- I was stunned. Frankly, all goaltenders are, well goaltenders, and they're a different bird.
Tuukka has been known to mysteriously come down with "something" at crucial times. I have been critical of his role, among many others, in coming up short twice in the finals.
It's fair to question his committment to the game and to his teammates.
It's unfair to assume X, Y & Z about his motives, which remain a mystery to all.
I take him, management and those in the locker room at their word.
He needed to leave. He wasn't focused. Family first? Sounds right to me
Finally, I am not necessarily a fan, but give the guy a break. We don't know what's in his heart, or his head.