According to a medical source, the hip surgery undergone by Patriots tight end Aaron Hernandez this offseason was similar to the operation that Bruins goalie Tim Thomas had last summer.

Thomas’ recuperation period was expected to be three to four months, and the veteran goalie not only was ready when training camp opened but he’s been better than ever this season.

If Hernandez has a similar recuperation period, he would be ready when the Pats report for camp in July … if the NFL’s labor dispute is settled by then.