The Boston Bruins announced their 2024 training camp roster on September 17, and notably absent was restricted free-agent goaltender Jeremy Swayman. The roster includes 50 players set to report to Warrior Ice Arena, but Swayman remains unsigned as he works to finalize a new contract with the team.
The 25-year-old goaltender’s absence comes just days before the regular season begins, leaving the Bruins without one of their key players heading into camp. In Swayman’s place, five other goaltenders will participate: Ryan Bischel, Brandon Bussi, Michael DiPietro, Joonas Korpisalo, and Nolan Maier.
Korpisalo, recently acquired from the Ottawa Senators, is expected to assume the starting role while Swayman remains in contract negotiations. This situation puts the Bruins in a precarious position, as Swayman is regarded as one of the NHL’s top young netminders.
Swayman has an impressive career record of 79-33-15, with a 2.34 goals-against average and a .919 save percentage. His skill set significantly outmatches that of Korpisalo, who is generally viewed as a backup rather than a starting goaltender.
The Bruins have hesitated to offer Swayman a long-term contract, citing concerns over his experience as a full-time starter. This hesitation has stalled the negotiations between the two parties, leaving Swayman without a deal as the season approaches.
Reports indicate that Swayman is seeking a contract with an average annual value exceeding Juuse Saros’ $7.74 million, potentially aiming for over $10 million. In contrast, the Bruins have reportedly offered around $6.2 million per season, leading to speculation that they have “lowballed” him.
Fluto Shinzawa from The Athletic anticipated Swayman’s absence from camp, noting the lack of a clear resolution in the negotiations. He expressed confidence in Swayman’s abilities and his strong sense of self-worth in the negotiations.
If Swayman’s holdout extends into the season, the situation could grow more complex. NHL rules stipulate that he must sign his contract by December 1 to be eligible for the 2024–25 season.
The ongoing contract dispute puts the Bruins in a difficult position, as they prepare for the upcoming season without one of their top players in net. As training camp begins, the pressure mounts for both Swayman and the Bruins to reach an agreement soon.
With the regular season approaching, fans and analysts alike will be closely monitoring the situation, hoping for a swift resolution that brings Swayman back to the Bruins lineup.