The Boston Bruins are set to begin training camp without their star goalie, Jeremy Swayman, as reported by the Boston Globe. Contract negotiations between Swayman, who is an unrestricted free agent, and the team have stalled, leaving no agreement for an extension.
In Swayman’s absence, the Bruins will rely on newly acquired Joonas Korpisalo, formerly with the Ottawa Senators, as their primary goaltender. Bruins insider Fluto Shinzawa from The Athletic noted that Swayman might miss camp and the preseason entirely due to the ongoing contract impasse.
“I wouldn’t be surprised if this drags into camp without him signed,” Shinzawa remarked on a September 14 episode of Bruins Rinkside. “Jeremy is very confident and secure in what he’s accomplished and what he can become.”
While various reports offer conflicting details about the financial differences between the two parties, it appears a significant gap still exists. Swayman, with a career record of 79-33-15, a 2.34 goals-against average, and a .919 save percentage, has yet to secure a long-term deal due to concerns about his ability to be a full-time starter.
Rumors suggest Swayman is seeking a deal with an annual average value (AAV) higher than Juuse Saros’ $7.74 million contract, potentially exceeding $10 million. Meanwhile, the Bruins have reportedly offered around $6.2 million per season, according to Spittin’ Chiclets’ Ryan Whitney.
As Swayman remains unsigned, Korpisalo, who was brought in during the Linus Ullmark trade, is expected to take over as the No. 1 goaltender during training camp. Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman speculated on the 32 Thoughts podcast that the Bruins might regret their handling of Swayman’s contract situation, particularly the arbitration process, which could have strained the relationship between the two sides.
If Swayman and the Bruins fail to reach an agreement by December 1, he will be ineligible to play for the entire 2024-25 season.
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