Boston’s Thomas runaway pick by general managers as Vezina winner, given to top NHL goalie

Boston’s Thomas wins NHL’s top goalie award

LAS VEGAS — Journeyman Tim Thomas has been picked overwhelmingly by NHL general managers as the league’s top goalie.

Thomas earned 22 first-place votes to take the Vezina Trophy. Columbus’ Steve Mason, awarded the Calder Trophy earlier Thursday night as rookie of the year, was the next closest finalist with three first-place votes. Minnesota’s Niklas Backstrom received one.

Thomas told a crowd at the Palms Casino Resort that winning the Vezina was a dream. He said he was more used to worrying about whether he’d be on a roster than winning awards.