Thumbs up for Rask

Tuukka Rask, in town with the P-Bruins for the last two weeks, said it was a positive experience to be around the club during its playoff run.

"Hanging out with the guys, getting to know everybody on the team -- it was awesome," said the spindly Rask, wearing a white Red Sox hat and a black Metallica T-shirt.

Rask, who practiced with the P-Bruins under the watch of goaltending coach Bob Essensa, noted the smaller width of the North American rink. Rask also said he saw more shots than he did in Finland.

Rask plans to travel to Chicago later this week to visit Bill Zito, his agent. Then he will return to Finland. Rask said he has not determined whether the July prospects camp will fit into his schedule.

While Rask may return to Providence in 2007-08, he said he'll be gunning for a big-league job during camp.

"I think anyone in training camp has a shot," said Rask. "It depends on how good you are. If you're good, why wouldn't they want you on the team?"