This is currently one of the most talked-about issues in the NHL, as there’s a standoff between star goalie Jeremy Swayman and the Boston Bruins.
Here are some key points about the situation:
1 – Tensions escalated between Swayman and the Bruins a few days ago when Cam Neely publicly discussed their negotiations, suggesting that Swayman had rejected a substantial $64 million offer from the team.
Cam Neely with a shot at Swayman “64 Million reasons I’d be playing right now”
Wow. If I’m Swayman I don’t give in at all now. Buckle up
— Drew Livingstone (@ProducerDrew_) September 30, 2024
Swayman’s camp reacted strongly, calling the claims completely false and dishonest, and stating that they would need to reassess their future with the team.
Although no formal trade request has been made, it’s evident that Swayman is open to the idea of a fresh start, and his relationship with the Bruins seems to be fractured.
2 – After this awkward situation, it has come to light that Swayman would be willing to accept a deal in the range of $8.5 to $8.9 million per year over 8 years.
3 – Earlier this summer, the St. Louis Blues made two offer sheets to Edmonton Oilers players Philip Broberg and Dylan Holloway, with many analysts suggesting this was a pivotal moment for the NHL. Offer sheets, once frowned upon, are now seen as ‘fair game.’
4 – According to the well-regarded Pierre LeBrun, Kent Hughes and Jeff Gorton were seriously pursuing Yaroslav Askarov from the Nashville Predators.
This shows the Montreal Canadiens are actively seeking a young, elite-level goaltender.
An offer sheet for Jeremy Swayman and a perfect replacement for Carey Price?
When considering all these factors—1) the strained relationship between Swayman and the Bruins, 2) his willingness to sign for less than $9 million annually, 3) the growing acceptance of offer sheets in the NHL, and 4) the Montreal Canadiens’ need for an elite young goaltender—the question arises:
Should Kent Hughes and Jeff Gorton submit an offer sheet for Jeremy Swayman?
At $8.9 million per year, the compensation would consist of:
– A 1st-round pick
– A 2nd-round pick
– A 3rd-round pick
In my opinion, it would absolutely be worth it for Jeremy Swayman. The chance to acquire a goaltender of his caliber doesn’t come around often, and he could be a franchise cornerstone. With Swayman in net, Montreal’s 2025 1st-round pick likely wouldn’t be in the top 10, reducing the risk.
Huuuge weekend for #NHLBruins and Jeremy Swayman, because the pain begins for both sides on Monday at 5:01pm.
A refresher and handy calculator @DailyFaceoff illustrating the importance of each day for in-season RFA signings:https://t.co/6pakgoigGp
— Frank Seravalli (@frank_seravalli) October 5, 2024
Additionally, this move would significantly weaken the Boston Bruins, as Swayman is arguably a top-5 goaltender in the world right now, if not the best. Losing him would be a major blow to the Bruins’ competitive window.
The Canadiens have a real opportunity here, and with time running out for Boston, it’s worth considering. What do you think? Would you like to see Montreal make that bold move?
