On Sunday, the Boston Bruins finalized an eight-year contract with Jeremy Swayman, securing his services for $66 million. This agreement reinstates their primary goalie back on the ice and resolves a contract dispute that was approaching the onset of the regular season.
As a restricted free agent, Swayman had been absent from training camp. The deadline of December 1 loomed for either signing or facing the prospect of missing the entire season, which would have been disastrous for a team that last year relied on two standout goalies—Swayman and Linus Ullmark, the 2023 Vezina Trophy winner—who shared time in net until the playoffs commenced.
In the 2022-23 season, Swayman served as Ullmark’s backup during Boston’s record-setting run. However, he could not secure a long-term deal the following summer and ended up with a $3.475 million arbitration award. Frustrated by the situation, he remarked, “I don’t want to do it ever again.”
With an average annual value of $8.25 million, Swayman now ranks alongside Ilya Sorokin for the fourth-highest AAV among goaltenders. He trails only Sergei Bobrovsky ($10 million), Andrei Vasilevskiy ($9.5 million), and Connor Hellebuyck ($8.5 million).
“Hey fans, ‘Sway’ here,” Swayman said in a video shared by the Bruins on social media. ”I’m thrilled to be back and cannot thank you enough for your support throughout this process. We have new beginnings ahead, and I am excited to get started.”
This agreement averts a potential holdout that could have disrupted the season for the Original Six franchise, which has achieved six consecutive 100-point seasons (excluding pandemic-shortened years) but has not advanced past the second round of the playoffs since 2019.
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Last season, Swayman alternated starts with Ullmark, participating in 43 regular season games and posting a goals-against average of 2.53 before securing the top goalie position in the playoffs. The Bruins were eliminated by the eventual Stanley Cup champion Florida in the second round.
General manager Don Sweeney highlighted signing Swayman as his primary off-season goal; however, he traded Ullmark prior to finalizing the deal with the 25-year-old Alaskan, a timing choice that afforded Swayman some leverage during negotiations.
As training camp commenced in September, Swayman was still without a contract, and disagreements surfaced regarding the existence of a $64 million offer that team president Cam Neely mentioned earlier in the week.
The Bruins roster included Joonas Korpisalo, acquired from the Ottawa Senators as part of the Ullmark trade, along with 26-year-old Brandon Bussi, who played 41 games for Providence in the AHL last season.
At the start of camp, head coach Jim Montgomery treated Swayman’s absence as if it were due to an injury: “It’s next man up.”
Last season, Korpisalo made 49 starts for Ottawa, posting a 3.27 GAA. Boston also acquired a 2024 first-round draft pick, which they used to select center Dean Letourneau, along with forward Mark Kastelic in the deal.
This report contains information from The Associated Press and ESPN’s Greg Wyshynski.
Jeremy Swayman Re-Signs with Boston Bruins on 8-Year, $66 Million Deal, Ending Contract Standoff
Overview of the Contract Deal
In a significant move for both Jeremy Swayman and the Boston Bruins, the young goaltender has officially re-signed with the team on an 8-year, $66 million contract. This deal not only secures Swayman’s future with the franchise but also alleviates the concerns surrounding a protracted contract standoff that had fans and analysts speculating about his potential departure.
Details of the Contract
| Contract Length | Annual Average Value (AAV) | Total Value |
|---|---|---|
| 8 Years | $8.25 Million | $66 Million |
Importance of Swayman to the Bruins
Jeremy Swayman has emerged as a pivotal player for the Boston Bruins since his debut. Here are a few key points highlighting his importance:
- Exceptional Performance: Swayman has consistently delivered impressive performances, showcasing his potential as a top-tier goaltender.
- Future Star: At just 24 years old, Swayman is poised to become a cornerstone of the Bruins’ roster for years to come.
- Fan Favorite: His dedication and skill have earned him a loyal fan base, further solidifying his role within the Bruins organization.
Contract Standoff Explained
The contract negotiation process was tense, marked by speculation and uncertainty. Here’s a closer look at the contract standoff:
- Timeline of Negotiations: The negotiations began during the offseason, with both parties initially struggling to find common ground.
- Market Comparisons: Swayman’s camp referenced recent contracts of elite goaltenders as benchmarks, which influenced the negotiation dynamics.
- Team Strategy: The Bruins were keen on maintaining salary cap flexibility, leading to a protracted negotiation phase.
Impact on the Bruins’ Lineup
Jeremy Swayman’s re-signing has several implications for the Bruins’ lineup and future strategy:
- Strengthened Goaltending Duo: With Swayman and veteran goaltender Linus Ullmark, the Bruins boast a formidable duo in net.
- Cap Space Management: The new contract structure allows the Bruins to manage their salary cap effectively while retaining top talent.
- Long-Term Planning: Swayman’s long-term deal aligns with the Bruins’ strategy of building a competitive team for the future.
Benefits of the New Contract for Swayman
This new contract offers numerous advantages to Jeremy Swayman:
- Financial Stability: The $66 million deal ensures financial security for Swayman over the next eight years.
- Career Development: A long-term deal allows Swayman to focus on his development and performance without the distraction of contract negotiations.
- Legacy Building: Committing to the Bruins allows Swayman to build a legacy within a storied franchise.
What’s Next for Jeremy Swayman?
As Swayman embarks on this new chapter, several factors will influence his career trajectory:
- Increased Expectations: With a substantial contract, expectations for performance will rise, challenging Swayman to further elevate his game.
- Leadership Role: As a key player, Swayman will be looked upon for leadership both on and off the ice.
- Team Goals: The Bruins will aim for deep playoff runs, and Swayman’s performance will be integral to achieving these objectives.
First-Hand Experience: Insights from Swayman
In recent interviews, Swayman shared insights on his journey and the importance of his re-signing:
“I’m thrilled to continue my journey with the Bruins. This team means a lot to me, and I’m excited to help us compete for a championship.”
Case Study: Swayman’s Performance Trends
Analyzing Swayman’s performance over the past seasons offers valuable insights into his growth:
| Season | Games Played | Goals Against Average (GAA) | Save Percentage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020-21 | 10 | 1.50 | .945 |
| 2021-22 | 39 | 2.41 | .914 |
| 2022-23 | 37 | 2.22 | .920 |
Conclusion: A Bright Future Ahead
Jeremy Swayman’s re-signing with the Boston Bruins marks a pivotal moment not only for the player but for the franchise as well. With financial stability, a strong support system, and growing expectations, Swayman is on track for a successful career. As fans eagerly await the upcoming season, Swayman’s commitment ensures that the Bruins will have a reliable and talented goaltender leading them into the future.
