It’s time for another round of NHL rumours. We’re nearing the start of the regular season, but we’re already seeing our fair share of drama. Most restricted free agents have inked their respective deals. However, talks are heated with one major name that’s still unsigned. Today’s edition of NHL rumours deals with the Boston Bruins and the latest update regarding contract talks.
All NHL rumours come from the original source and are subject to change.
NHL Rumours
Drama Surrounding Talks with RFA Goalie
Rumour: Monday offered a flurry of updates regarding the negotiations between Jeremy Swayman and the Boston Bruins.
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
Analysis: Bruins President Cam Neely told the media that Swayman had “64 million reasons to re-sign with the Bruins. This likely meant that Boston offered an eight-year deal worth $8 million per season. We’ve mentioned in previous editions of NHL rumours that an eight-year deal was something both sides were agreeable to.
However, Swayman’s agent Lewis Gross shot down what Neely told the media and that no such deal of that nature was offered to his client. Gross said in a statement that he normally doesn’t release statements regarding contract talks. “However, in this case, I feel the need to defend my client. At today’s press conference, $64 million was referenced. This was the first time that number was discussed in our negotiations. Prior to the press conference, no offer was made reaching that level.”
Gross added that Neely’s statements were disappointing and that his client is going to take a few days to process things.
Getting Nasty
Talks between the two sides in a negotiation can always get a little contentious. Contract talks can be tough. However, this is getting really personal between the two sides.
Swayman signing the reported offer from Neely and Boston General Manager Don Sweeney would make him the fifth-highest paid goalie in the league. However, that ranking would go down with impending contracts for New York Rangers netminder Igor Shesterkin and Dallas Stars goalie Jake Oettinger coming up. A lot of general managers are hoping Swayman’s contract doesn’t drive up the cost of doing business in signing their elite goalies.
Boston’s 25-year-old goalie is trying to account for the upcoming rising salary cap. The league is expected to see salary growth and Swayman is trying to account for that in this pending contract.
What It Means
Boston has already announced that Joonas Korpisalo will start the season-opener versus the Florida Panthers. However, the talk is going to be surrounding Swayman unless a new deal is reached.
The start of the season could tell the story on where talks go. A strong start by Boston would give management the advantage. However, the Anchorage, Alaska native could hold the power if the Bruins start slow this campaign.
There’s a December 1 deadline to get a contract finished. However, all sides probably don’t want it to get to that point. The Atlantic Division is always tough and the Bruins may need every point in order to get themselves a good Stanley Cup Playoff spot. However, the clock is ticking and Bruins’ fans hope it doesn’t strike midnight.
Main photo by: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
