Just hours after Bruins President Cam Neely hinted at a $64 million contract offer for restricted free agent goaltender Jeremy Swayman, Swayman’s agent, Lewis Gross, issued a sharp response about the contract negotiation deadlock.
Gross posted a statement on social media Monday night, saying, “I typically do not address negotiations through the media, but I feel compelled to defend my client. The $64 million figure mentioned today was the first time it has been discussed in our talks. No such offer was made before the press conference.”
He expressed disappointment, saying, “This was unfair to Jeremy. We’ll take a few days to decide our next steps.”
This statement marks the latest in a tense negotiation between the Bruins, Swayman, and his team. During the season-opening press conference earlier that day, Neely had made candid remarks about the contract stalemate, just as head coach Jim Montgomery confirmed Joonas Korpisalo would start the first game of the season on October 8.
Neely avoided specifics on Swayman’s contract request but commented, “I have 64 million reasons why I’d be playing right now.”
Reports indicate that Swayman is seeking an eight-year deal, and a $64 million contract would translate to an $8 million annual cap hit—well above his $3.475 million salary from the 2023-24 season. Such a figure would make him the NHL’s fifth-highest-paid goalie.
While that number may exceed comparable contracts for a player of Swayman’s experience, it aligns with the rising salary cap projected in the next few years.
Neely also suggested that the Bruins have made reasonable offers, mentioning Swayman’s earlier claim that he didn’t want to “ruin the goalie market.” Neely added, “I don’t think we’ve low-balled him.”
Bruins GM Don Sweeney, in contrast to Neely’s direct comments, gave a more neutral take on the negotiations, acknowledging the competitive market but noting that players like Swayman have the right to explore free agency.
However, Gross’ statement may indicate a setback in negotiations, especially if the $64 million offer was formally presented on Monday, which Gross implied hadn’t happened prior. Despite this, Neely remains optimistic about Swayman’s desire to stay in Boston.
