In the world of NHL rumours, the drama of free agency has come and gone, but the whispers of potential signings and contract talks continue to swirl. While many big-name players have already found new homes, there are still plenty of talented athletes waiting to ink deals. One team feeling the pressure to secure a key player is the Boston Bruins, who are facing negotiations with a rising star goalie.
Jeremy Swayman, the last man standing in the Bruins’ net after his partner Linus Ullmark was traded to the Ottawa Senators, is in a contract year as a restricted free agent. With the team making moves in free agency that have eaten into their salary cap space, General Manager Don Sweeney is left with around $10.2 million to play with. Sweeney, while recognizing the importance of re-signing Swayman, must also consider the team’s future needs and potential for a deep playoff run.
“Swayman is a priority for us,” Sweeney emphasized, acknowledging the significance of securing the young goalie for the team’s long-term success. However, finding the right balance in terms of salary is crucial for both parties. At just 25 years old, Swayman has already shown immense talent and potential to become a top-tier goalie in the NHL.
But what is the right price tag for a player of Swayman’s caliber? Analysts point out that only a handful of goalies in the league command salaries higher than $6.4 million, with the likes of Vezina Trophy winners and Stanley Cup champions in their ranks. While Swayman may not have these accolades yet, his performance on the ice speaks for itself.
Looking ahead, Sweeney and the Bruins management have to weigh their options carefully. With a current cap space of over $10 million, the team may aim to keep Swayman’s contract closer to $6 million. However, with the salary cap expected to rise in the coming years, a higher figure of $7 or $8 million could be on the horizon for the talented young netminder.
As negotiations heat up behind closed doors, fans can only speculate on the outcome of the talks. Will Swayman secure a lucrative deal that reflects his potential, or will the Bruins play it safe and aim for a more modest contract? Only time will tell as the NHL rumour mill continues to churn out headlines and surprises.
