The Boston Bruins are still in contract talks with their star goaltender Jeremy Swayman as the regular season approaches. With training camps about a month away, some fans might be getting nervous about the lack of a deal. However, Swayman himself remains confident and unconcerned about the ongoing negotiations. In a recent interview, he expressed his belief that a deal will be reached, stating that he’s been treating the situation as “business as usual” and has been training with the team, feeling optimistic about the upcoming season.
Despite Swayman’s confidence, NHL insider Elliotte Friedman provided a less reassuring update on the latest episode of the “32 Thoughts” podcast. Friedman noted that, while he hasn’t been closely following the situation, the negotiations between the Bruins and Swayman appear to be difficult, with both sides still far from an agreement. He mentioned that the last he heard, the two sides “were not close.”
Fans might be wondering why these talks are dragging on, especially since Swayman is expected to be the Bruins’ starting goalie next season, with Jonas Korpisalo as his backup. Both Swayman and the Bruins want him to stay in Boston, but the situation is complicated by financial considerations. The NHL is a business, and Swayman is looking to secure a substantial contract.
The Bruins have $8.6 million in cap space, which is enough for most goalies, but Swayman’s performance has positioned him as one of the league’s top goaltenders, justifying his demand for a significant payday.
One fan even joked that Swayman might set a record as the highest-paid goaltender in Bruins history next season. Over his career, Swayman has played 132 NHL games, all with the Bruins, with 125 starts. He has a record of 79-33-15, 12 shutouts, a 2.34 career goals-against average (GAA), and a .919 save percentage, making him one of the best goalies in the league. Now, it’s time for him to be compensated accordingly.
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