NHL Rumors: Boston Bruins goalie contract drama

It’s time for another round of NHL rumors. We’re getting closer to the start of the regular season, but we’re already seeing some drama. Most of the restricted free agents have signed their respective contracts. However, the talks are heated as a big name still doesn’t have a contract. Today’s edition of NHL Rumors looks at the Boston Bruins and the latest update on contract negotiations.

All NHL rumors are from the original source and are subject to change.

NHL rumors

Drama about conversations with RFA goalkeeper

Rumor: There were numerous updates on negotiations between Jeremy Swayman and the Boston Bruins on Monday.

Cam Neely with a chance at Swayman “64 million reasons why I would play now”

Wow. If I’m Swayman, I’m not giving in at all now. Buckle up

pic.twitter.com/klRb8HfAl8

— Drew Livingstone (@ProducerDrew_) September 30, 2024

Analysis: Bruins president Cam Neely told the media that Swayman had “64 million reasons to re-sign with the Bruins.” This likely meant Boston offered an eight-year contract worth $8 million per season. We mentioned in previous editions of NHL Rumors that both sides agreed to an eight-year deal.

However, Swayman’s agent Lewis Gross rejected what Neely told the media and that his client was not offered such a deal. Gross said in a statement that he typically does not release statements about contract negotiations. “In this case, however, I feel the need to defend my client. At today’s press conference the figure was 64 million US dollars. This was the first time this figure was discussed in our negotiations. No offer of this amount was made before the press conference.”

Gross added that Neely’s statements were disappointing and that his client would need a few days to process things.

Gets angry

Conversations between the two sides in a negotiation can always be somewhat contentious. Contract negotiations can be difficult. However, things get very personal between the two sides.

If Swayman signs the reported offer from Neely and Boston general manager Don Sweeney, he would be the fifth-highest paid goaltender in the league. However, that ranking would drop with upcoming contracts for New York Rangers goaltender Igor Shesterkin and Dallas Stars goaltender Jake Oettinger. Many general managers hope Swayman’s contract doesn’t drive up the cost of signing their elite goaltenders.

Boston’s 25-year-old goalie tries to explain the upcoming rising salary cap. A salary increase is expected around the league, and Swayman is trying to factor that into this pending contract.

What it means

Boston has already announced that Joonas Korpisalo will start the season opener against the Florida Panthers. However, the conversation will revolve around Swayman unless a new deal is reached.

The start of the season could provide insight into where the talks are heading. A strong start from Boston would give management an advantage. However, the Anchorage, Alaska native could hold power if the Bruins get off to a slow start this campaign.

There is a deadline of December 1st to conclude a contract. However, not all sides want it to come to that. The Atlantic Division is always tough and the Bruins may need every point to secure a good spot in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. However, the clock is ticking and Bruins fans are hoping the clock doesn’t strike midnight.

Main photo by: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images