Jeremy Swayman is holding his ground in contract negotiations with the Boston Bruins, who are already looking at possible replacements. The Athletic’s Fluto Shinzawa reports that the 24-year-old goaltender, still feeling the effects of his recent arbitration, is not willing to agree to a deal he finds unacceptable. This is a critical time for Swayman to assert himself.
Shinzawa notes, “That is his right,” while also acknowledging, “It is also the Bruins’ right to pursue alternatives.”
When Jeremy Swayman believes in something, he is not designed to back down. https://t.co/QCicEAUaUu
— Fluto Shinzawa (@FlutoShinzawa) September 20, 2024
The Bruins are preparing for the possibility that Swayman may hold out. Recently, the team signed veteran goalie Kasimir Kaskisuo to a professional tryout agreement (PTO), adding him to a depth pool that includes Brandon Bussi and Ryan Bischel. This move indicates the Bruins are actively exploring options in case a resolution with Swayman isn’t reached soon.
Additionally, the team has asked Joonas Korpisalo to step up in Swayman’s absence during training camp. Korpisalo, who has previously demonstrated his capabilities as a solid NHL starter, has been working with goaltending coach Bob Essensa to get back to his best. He downplayed the impact of the Swayman situation on his own performance, stating, “It doesn’t change my job. I’m just focusing on myself.”
Swayman Has Drawn a Line in the Sand With the Bruins
Swayman, recognized for his competitive nature, is taking a significant risk by sitting out. However, this aligns with his personality and approach to the game. Shinzawa highlighted various instances in Swayman’s career where he received a wake-up call and emerged even more driven. When he is passionate about something, he is determined to prove others wrong and validate himself.
This mindset poses challenges for the Bruins unless they can secure a contract with him.
Every missed on-ice session, preseason game, or regular season match could negatively impact Swayman’s ability to perform at his best when he finally takes the ice. If he doesn’t sign by December 1, he will be ineligible to participate in the 2024-25 season, which would be the worst-case scenario. It’s uncertain whether Swayman is ready to let it get to that point.
Both parties may need to find a resolution, but for now, the Bruins are bracing for the possibility that Swayman might not return anytime soon. They are exploring alternative options, and discussions about potential trades are beginning to emerge if the situation escalates further.
