The Boston Bruins and Jeremy Swayman are still far apart on a deal, which might cause the outstanding goaltender to miss the entire year. The Boston Bruins have experienced a wild off-season that is still developing, full with drama and shocks. The trade of Ottawa Senators goaltender Linus Ullmark, a fan favourite, for what many would consider to be meagre compensation was arguably the biggest surprise. However, the squad has added several significant players to the roster, including as physical defenseman Nikita Zadorov, who can play on the blue line, and centre Elias Lindholm, who will strengthen the team’s core of forwards.
The key plot point, in spite of all these changes, is still the ongoing contract talks involving superstar goaltender Jeremy Swayman. Reports that an agreement is still far from being achieved have escalated tensions. As per Ryan Whitney, a former NHL player, who discussed the issue on the well-known podcast ‘Spittin’ Chiclets,’ the Bruins made Swayman an offer of $6.2 million per year (AAV) for a four-year contract. Swayman is one of the best young goalies in the league, thus given his potential and his performance, eyebrows have been raised considering that this is regarded by many as being considerably below market value.
NHL insider Elliotte Friedman did weigh in, adding fuel to the fire by confirming Ryan Whitney’s allegation. Jeremy Swayman is requesting about $10 million AAV, Friedman continued. If not, the 25-year-old could at least be considering a deal similar to that of colleague Charlie McAvoy, who signed an eight-year deal worth $9.5 million a year.
There are serious doubts about whether a deal could be completed in time for the season to begin given the significant disparity in contract discussions when years and terms are taken into account. The pressure is on the Bruins to meet Jeremy Swayman in the middle with just over a month until the start of the regular season. This is a precarious scenario in goal with the trade of Linus Ullmark, and Swayman will be much relied upon if the squad has any realistic chances of being competitive in the Eastern Conference.
Speaking of which, the deadline is looming, and no doubt the fans and analysts are holding their collective breaths anxiously awaiting an update. After all, this particular contract negotiation may have far-reaching implications regarding the ultimate success or failure of the Bruins this season.
Jeremy Swayman was a fourth-round draft pick by the Boston Bruins in 2017 and has managed to play in 132 games for the franchise. He has a lovely 79-33-15 record with a 2.34 career GAA and a very strong .919 save percentage.
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