The ongoing contract negotiation between the Boston Bruins and their talented goaltender Jeremy
Swayman has emerged as one of the most captivating narratives of the NHL preseason. As the situation
unfolds, the Utah Hockey Club, which is preparing for its inaugural season, should closely monitor these
developments. Swayman, who boasted an impressive record of 21 wins and 10 losses alongside a
remarkable 91.6 save percentage last season, is currently a restricted free agent. While the Bruins are
keen on retaining him, there seems to be a significant impasse regarding his contract value.
Reports indicate that the negotiation gap between the two parties is around $700,000 per season.
Insider Frank Seravalli revealed that the Bruins have proposed a long-term deal worth $62.4 million
over eight years, averaging $7.8 million annually. However, Swayman’s representatives are reportedly
seeking a deal closer to $8.5 million per year. Bruins president Cam Neely has publicly suggested a
figure around $8 million, further complicating the situation as both sides strive to find common ground
.
As the start of the regular season draws near, there are whispers that the Bruins might consider putting
Swayman on the trading block if negotiations stall. However, according to Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman,
the team has been resistant to that idea thus far, expressing a clear desire to keep him in the fold.
Nonetheless, Neely’s comments have introduced some uncertainty, as they reveal a number that
Swayman’s camp claims was not previously offered. Swayman’s agent has indicated a pause in
negotiations, suggesting the potential for further developments in the coming days.
Should Swayman express a desire to be traded or firmly stand his ground, Utah could find itself in a
favorable position to pursue him. The Utah Hockey Club, while newly established, has already made
significant strides in reshaping its roster. With key additions like Ian Cole and Kevin Stenlund, alongside
promising players such as Mikhail Sergachev and John Marino, the team is eager to move past the
struggles of the Arizona Coyotes, from whom many players were acquired.
With last season’s performance showing Utah as a mid-tier offensive team and a struggling defensive
unit, acquiring Swayman could be pivotal. Currently, the team has a goaltending duo of Connor Ingram
and Karel Vejmelka, but Swayman would provide a marked upgrade over Vejmelka. Although the price
for Swayman is expected to be steep, Utah has ample cap space—approximately $9.9 million—to
facilitate his desired contract if the reported figures hold true.
Ultimately, the decision will rest with Utah’s management, including owner Ryan Smith, general
manager Bill Armstrong, and head coach André Tourigny. While there’s potential for competition in the
trade market, Swayman’s youth and skill set make him an attractive option. For Utah, pursuing
Swayman would not only signal ambition but also demonstrate a commitment to building a competitive
team from the outset. As fans await further developments, the prospect of Swayman joining the ranks
could be a transformative moment for the franchise.
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