The 2024-25 NHL season kicks off on Friday, but the situation surrounding Boston Bruins goalie Jeremy Swayman remains uncertain. Following a heated public exchange between Bruins president Cam Neely and Swayman’s agent on Tuesday, rumors have been swirling about the goalie’s future with the team. With no contract resolution in sight, fans and analysts are speculating about the possibility of a Swayman trade. Despite the Bruins’ desire to have the 25-year-old as their long-term goaltender, the relationship may be too strained to repair. If Boston does decide to trade him, one NHL analyst sees a potential fit with a rebuilding team. “Swayman could certainly accelerate the (Chicago Blackhawks’) rebuild,” SportsNet’s Ryan Dixon noted on Wednesday.
If the Bruins do choose to trade Jeremy Swayman, these three teams could be possible destinations. (@Dixononsports) https://t.co/SpzjhQiiui
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) October 2, 2024
The Chicago Blackhawks are seen as one of the most promising young teams in the NHL, but their progress is being hindered by the absence of a solid starting goaltender. Jeremy Swayman, approaching the age when many goalies hit their prime, could be the solution they need. According to the Daily Faceoff’s Frank Seravalli, the Bruins have offered Swayman an eight-year deal with an average annual value (AAV) of $7.8 million, but the goaltender is reportedly seeking closer to $10 million AAV, according to insider Rich Keefe.
While many teams can’t afford such a high salary this close to the season, the Blackhawks are in a unique position. PuckPedia reports that Chicago currently has just over $5.9 million in cap space, a figure that will rise to $31.5 million by July. Trading away players, such as goalie Petr Mrazek with his $4.25 million AAV, could further help the Blackhawks fit Swayman under the cap. Boston, in need of goaltending depth, might be interested in taking on Mrazek’s contract. The Blackhawks also have a wealth of young talent that could sweeten the deal for the Bruins.
In the 2023-24 season, Chicago allowed the fourth-most goals in the league, contributing to their fourth straight year without a playoff appearance. Meanwhile, Swayman posted strong numbers with a 25-10-8 record, a .916 save percentage, and a 2.53 goals-against average in 44 games. It’s clear that Swayman could be the key to improving the Blackhawks’ goaltending.
If Swayman doesn’t sign a contract by Dec. 1, he’ll be ineligible to play this season, putting pressure on the Blackhawks to act swiftly if they believe acquiring him is feasible.
