Amid ongoing contract negotiations with goaltender Jeremy Swayman, the Boston Bruins have made a precautionary move by acquiring another netminder.
This signals uncertainty about Swayman’s return, as he is expected to miss the start of the 2024-25 regular season.
The #bruins have claimed goalie Jiri Patera off waivers from Vancouver.
— Chris Johnston (@reporterchris) October 2, 2024
The Bruins have claimed 25-year-old goaltender Jiri Patera, who was placed on waivers by the Vancouver Canucks. Patera, who signed a two-year, two-way deal with Vancouver in June, had previously played with the Vegas Golden Knights, posting a 1-3-1 record in six games during the 2023-24 season, with a 3.98 goals-against average and a .893 save percentage.
He also appeared in 25 AHL games for the Henderson Silver Knights last season, recording a 2.99 GAA and .903 save percentage.
The Bruins claimed goalie Jiri Patera off waivers.
Bruins fans seeing this news: pic.twitter.com/6hUxauYw58
— B/R Open Ice (@BR_OpenIce) October 2, 2024
The Bruins’ decision to add Patera comes as the team prepares for its season opener on October 8, where Joonas Korpisalo will start in net.
Alongside Korpisalo and Patera, Boston’s goaltending depth includes Brandon Bussi and Michael DePietro. The uncertainty surrounding Swayman’s situation clearly played a role in this latest roster move.
The Boston Bruins have officially claimed goalie Jiri Patera off waivers from the Vancouver Canucks, signaling their preparation for the possibility of moving forward without Jeremy Swayman. The ongoing contract dispute with Swayman, who remains unsigned, has fueled speculation about his future with the team. Bruins management has yet to reach an agreement with the star goaltender, and recent public tensions—especially following conflicting statements about a $64 million offer—suggest a resolution may be far off.
Patera, who posted solid stats in the AHL last season, joins the Bruins’ goaltending roster as a potential backup to veteran Joonas Korpisalo. This move has increased rumors about a potential Swayman trade, with teams like the Chicago Blackhawks and Vegas Golden Knights being mentioned as possible destinations.
