As far as PC misunderstanding the rules:
This is from the Globe after the contract was signed
http://www.boston.com/sports/hockey/..._inks_new.html
Quote:
Thomas was scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent on July 1. According to a source in the Bruins front office, part of what was driving the club to get the deal done now is that fact that Thomas will turn 35 years old on April 15.
When a player signs a new deal after his 35th birthday, per the collective bargaining agreement (CBA), although he can be bought out (at a two-thirds reduction in pay), his cap number can not be deleted from the club's salary commitments.
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So it does seem like someone misunderstood the rules. I'm still looking for an official quote, though.