BOSTON — During a news conference on Monday, Boston Bruins president Cam Neely indicated that the team has proposed an eight-year deal worth $8 million annually to unsigned restricted free agent goaltender Jeremy Swayman, a statement that Swayman’s agent later challenged.
“I don’t want to dive too deep into what he’s asking for,” Neely remarked at TD Garden. “However, I have 64 million reasons why I’d be playing right now.”
While Neely did not reveal Swayman’s request, he mentioned he was taken aback by it.
At this stage, Swayman remains steadfast in his demands, reflecting his tendency not to compromise, especially following his uncomfortable arbitration hearing in 2023. Neely noted that Swayman aims to establish a new pay scale for goaltenders, especially those already under team control.
“What he is asking for and what we believe his comparable group to be,” Neely explained, “are two separate issues.”
General manager Don Sweeney continues to stay in touch with Lewis Gross, Swayman’s agent, adding that the Bruins have no intentions to trade Swayman.
“Ultimately, as I’ve said repeatedly, we’re a stronger team if Jeremy remains part of our roster,” Sweeney stated. “That’s my goal and my desire. I will persist in trying to achieve that. I believe both Jeremy and the team are affected by this situation. I will keep working diligently to find a resolution.”
Later on Monday, Gross took to X to respond to Neely’s comments, clarifying that the offer mentioned had not been discussed before.
“We are extremely disappointed,” Gross wrote, confirming to The Athletic’s Pierre LeBrun that it was indeed his post. “This was not fair to Jeremy. We will take a few days to deliberate on our next steps.”
— SPM (@SPMsports) September 30, 2024
With only three preseason games remaining, it seems likely that Swayman will miss some regular-season matches, even if an agreement is imminent. Coach Jim Montgomery has appointed Joonas Korpisalo as the starting goalie for the regular-season opener against the Florida Panthers on October 8, independent of Swayman’s negotiations. The Bruins have two full practices left in training camp.
“Considering where we are in camp, the success we’ve had, and Korpisalo’s performance,” Montgomery said, “he is currently our Game 1 starter.”
How good is the offer?
If agreed upon, Swayman would rank as the fifth-highest-paid goalie in the NHL with the Bruins’ offer, positioned behind Sergei Bobrovsky, Andrei Vasilevskiy, Connor Hellebuyck, and Ilya Sorokin. Among these, only Vasilevskiy, who has a $9.5 million average annual value, signed his contract as a pending restricted free agent; the others were on the verge of becoming unrestricted free agents.
This is a notable financial opportunity for Swayman, particularly since he has yet to be a full-time No. 1 goalie during the regular season.
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Can Korpisalo fill the void?
Korpisalo has performed well in his two preseason outings, but his prior season with the Ottawa Senators in 2023-24 was tough, finishing with a 21-26-4 record alongside a 3.27 goals-against average and an .890 save percentage. The previous season, he recorded a .914 save percentage, yet he has dropped below .895 in three of the last four years, with a career average of .901. In comparison, Swayman posted a 25-10-8 record last season, complemented by a 2.53 GAA and a .916 save percentage, and he holds a career save percentage of .919.
At the same time, Brandon Bussi, currently positioned as the second goaltender on the depth chart, has faced challenges during training camp.
Required reading
(Photo of Cam Neely: Dave Sandford / NHLI via Getty Images)
Boston Bruins Offer Jeremy Swayman $64 Million Over Eight Years: Agent Questions Validity
Overview of the Situation
The Boston Bruins have made headlines by offering goaltender Jeremy Swayman a lucrative contract valued at $64 million over eight years. This significant offer has drawn attention not only for its size but also for the skepticism expressed by Swayman’s agent regarding its validity. As the NHL offseason progresses, this situation raises questions about the future of the young goaltender and the strategic decisions made by the Bruins.
Understanding Jeremy Swayman’s Impact
Jeremy Swayman, who has quickly established himself as a prominent goaltender in the NHL, has played a crucial role for the Bruins. Here are some key highlights of his performance:
- Rookie Season Success: Swayman impressed during his rookie season, posting a .920 save percentage.
- Playoff Experience: His performance in the playoffs showcased his ability to handle high-pressure situations.
- Consistency: Swayman has demonstrated remarkable consistency, contributing to the Bruins’ successful campaigns in recent seasons.
Statistical Breakdown
To better understand Swayman’s performance, here’s a statistical overview of his career so far:
| Season | Games Played | Wins | Losses | Save Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020-2021 | 10 | 7 | 3 | .945 |
| 2021-2022 | 39 | 23 | 14 | .917 |
| 2022-2023 | 36 | 24 | 10 | .920 |
The Contract Offer Breakdown
The offered contract of $64 million over eight years translates to an average annual value (AAV) of $8 million. Here’s a closer look at what this contract means for both Swayman and the Bruins:
- Financial Commitment: This contract reflects a significant financial commitment by the Bruins, indicating their belief in Swayman as a cornerstone of their franchise.
- Long-Term Stability: An eight-year deal provides long-term stability for the team and allows Swayman to focus on his game without worrying about contract negotiations.
- Market Trends: The contract aligns with current market trends for elite goaltenders, which have seen substantial increases in recent years.
Comparative Analysis with Other Goaltenders
To better understand Swayman’s potential contract, let’s compare his offer with recent contracts given to other prominent goaltenders in the NHL:
| Goaltender | Team | Contract Value | Years | Average Annual Value (AAV) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Igor Shesterkin | New York Rangers | $66 Million | 5 | $13.2 Million |
| Andrei Vasilevskiy | Tampa Bay Lightning | $76 Million | 8 | $9.5 Million |
| Connor Hellebuyck | Winnipeg Jets | $37 Million | 6 | $6.17 Million |
| Juuse Saros | Nashville Predators | $26.5 Million | 4 | $6.625 Million |
Agent’s Skepticism
Despite the appealing nature of the offer, Jeremy Swayman’s agent has raised questions regarding its validity. This skepticism could stem from several factors:
- Injury Concerns: Any concerns regarding Swayman’s physical condition might lead the agent to question the offer.
- Performance Inconsistencies: While Swayman has performed well, the agent might believe that he needs more time to prove himself in a consistent manner.
- Market Dynamics: The agent may also be considering the broader market and whether Swayman could command a better deal elsewhere.
Current Market Sentiment
The NHL offseason is known for its volatility, with player values fluctuating based on team needs, available salary cap space, and player performances. The following factors are currently influencing the market:
- Rising Salary Cap: An increasing salary cap gives teams more flexibility to offer competitive contracts.
- Free Agency Trends: Many teams are looking to secure long-term goaltending options, driving up the competition for top-tier players.
- Team Rebuilds: Some franchises are willing to spend heavily to attract talent during their rebuild phases.
Benefits of Signing Swayman
Should the Bruins successfully sign Jeremy Swayman, they could reap numerous benefits:
- Franchise Stability: Swayman can become a long-term solution in the net, providing stability for the team.
- Fan Engagement: A young, talented goaltender can enhance fan engagement and draw crowds to games.
- Future Potential: Swayman’s development could lead to a potential trade asset or a cornerstone player if he continues to improve.
Practical Tips for Understanding NHL Contracts
Understanding NHL contracts can be complex, but here are some practical tips for fans looking to grasp the intricacies:
- Familiarize Yourself with the Salary Cap: Understanding how the salary cap works is crucial for evaluating contract offers.
- Monitor Player Performance: Keeping track of player statistics can provide insight into their market value.
- Follow Industry News: Staying updated on NHL news can help fans understand broader market trends affecting contracts.
Case Studies of Successful Goaltender Contracts
Several goaltenders have signed contracts that have proven beneficial for their teams. Here are a few examples:
- Marc-André Fleury: His contract with the Vegas Golden Knights not only showcased his skills but also allowed the team to make deep playoff runs.
- Braden Holtby: Holtby’s contract with the Washington Capitals during their championship run solidified his reputation as a top goaltender.
- Tukka Rask: The Bruins’ investment in Rask over the years has paid off with consistent playoff appearances.
Conclusion
The contract offer from the Boston Bruins to Jeremy Swayman is a significant moment in the NHL offseason. While the $64 million over eight years represents a testament to Swayman’s potential, the skepticism from his agent adds layers of complexity to the negotiation process. As the Bruins navigate this situation, fans and analysts alike will be keenly observing how it unfolds and what it means for the team’s future.
