Contract Dispute Looms as Boston Bruins’ Season Approaches

As the start of the National Hockey League (NHL) season approaches, the Boston Bruins are grappling with an unresolved contract issue involving their primary goaltender, Jeremy Swayman. Currently a restricted free agent, Swayman has yet to reach an agreement with the Bruins, leaving his participation in the upcoming season uncertain.

Boston Bruins President Cam Neely addressed the media on Monday, highlighting the financial aspects of the offer made to Swayman. “I don’t want to get into the specifics of what he’s asking, but I have 64 million reasons why I would be playing right now,” Neely hinted, referring to the financial terms at play.

In Swayman’s absence, Joonas Korpisalo is poised to start the first game of the season on October 8, as confirmed by head coach Jim Montgomery. Korpisalo was acquired during the summer in a trade with the Ottawa Senators after both Swayman and Linus Ullmark requested equal playing time.

General Manager Don Sweeney expressed respect for Swayman’s stance, stating, “Jeremy has chosen his position, and I respect it. To some degree, he probably respects ours as well. Ultimately, we are a better team with Jeremy as part of our club. That is my intention, my wish, and I will continue to work towards that.”

While Sweeney was not taken aback by Swayman’s demands, Neely admitted surprise at the goaltender’s requested compensation. “I was surprised,” Neely added.

Swayman, who was a fourth-round pick in 2017, concluded last season with a save percentage of .916 and a goals-against average of 2.53 over 44 games. A similar negotiation deadlock occurred in the previous season, where Swayman resorted to arbitration before agreeing to a one-year, $3.475 million contract signed on August 1, 2023.

In a recent appearance on the “Shut Up Marc” podcast, Swayman discussed his understanding of the business aspect of NHL contracts, stating, “I have educated myself and understand the business side of all this. It has given me a whole new mindset to understand the business side and how to react to it. I understand the salary cap is increasing and where it will be in the coming years. I understand my comparables. I cannot ruin the goalie market for other guys who will be in my position later.”

The likelihood of Swayman appearing in the Bruins’ goal for the season opener seems slim. Coach Montgomery noted the impact of missing practice, emphasizing, “The more time you spend without seeing NHL shots, the more time you spend without that kind of rhythm in front of you, whether it’s five-on-five games as we do in every practice or repetitions, the more you fall behind.”