Jeremy Swayman, goaltender for the Boston Bruins, is reportedly seeking a contract similar to the high-value deal teammate Charlie McAvoy signed. However, according to NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, there is currently a significant gap between what Swayman is asking for and what the Bruins are willing to offer. This “huge discrepancy” in contract terms has led to challenging negotiations, with the Bruins seemingly hesitant to meet Swayman’s desired salary. The disagreement raises concerns about whether the two sides can come to an agreement, as Swayman’s performance has elevated his value to the team.
Swayman, who has emerged as one of the Bruins’ top goaltenders, has been a crucial part of the team’s defensive success. His consistent performance has earned him recognition, making the stakes higher in these negotiations. The goalie is pushing for a deal that reflects his value to the team, similar to McAvoy’s $76 million, eight-year contract. McAvoy, a defenseman, signed his contract in 2021, solidifying his position as a cornerstone of the team’s future. Swayman aims for a comparable long-term commitment, signaling his belief that his role is just as integral to the Bruins’ success.
However, the Bruins are approaching the negotiation more cautiously. Despite Swayman’s contributions, the team may be considering salary cap constraints and other roster needs, making it difficult to meet his demands. With both sides far apart, the outcome of these negotiations could significantly impact the Bruins’ goaltending situation moving forward. If the gap in contract discussions remains unresolved, it could lead to further complications, potentially even trade talks or Swayman testing free agency in the future.
Ultimately, the Bruins will need to balance their financial limitations with the need to retain key players like Swayman, whose performance has been pivotal to the team’s recent success.