In a recent development in the world of hockey negotiations, Lewis Gross, the agent for restricted free agent goaltender Jeremy Swayman, expressed his “extreme disappointment” in the wake of comments made by Boston Bruins president Cam Neely regarding their ongoing contract talks. Neely, during a press conference on Monday, alluded to the salary demands of Swayman by stating, “I don’t want to get into the weeds with what his ask is, but I have 64 million reasons why I’d be playing right now.”
The remarks made by Neely did not sit well with Gross, who took to social media to defend Swayman and clarify that the figure of $64 million had never been part of their negotiations prior to the press conference. Gross stated, “Normally I do not release statements or discuss negotiations through the media, however, in this case, I feel I 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. We are extremely disappointed. This was not fair to Jeremy. We will take a few days to discuss where we go from here.”
Swayman, the lone remaining restricted free agent in the NHL, has had a tumultuous negotiation process with the Bruins. Last summer, he went to arbitration and was awarded a one-year, $3.475 million contract. This year, however, both parties opted not to go down the arbitration route. In the previous season, Swayman showcased his talent in 44 games, boasting a 2.53 goals-against average and a .916 save percentage. The 25-year-old has spent his entire career with the Bruins, accumulating a record of 79-33-15 along with a .919 save percentage and a 2.34 GAA.
As the hockey world waits for the next move in the contract negotiations between Swayman and the Bruins, it is evident that tensions are running high. With both sides standing firm in their positions, the outcome of this saga remains uncertain. Stay tuned as this intriguing storyline continues to unfold in the realm of professional hockey.
