Former NHL player-turned-analyst Stu Grimson recently shared his insights on the contract standoff between goaltender Jeremy Swayman and the Boston Bruins. Swayman, a restricted free agent, is yet to reach an agreement for the upcoming 2024-25 season.
Grimson revealed on the NHL Network that Swayman has made a firm decision to avoid arbitration this time around, after being awarded a one-year, $3.5 million contract last summer. Despite being eligible for arbitration, Swayman and the Bruins have not finalized a new deal yet.
According to Grimson, Swayman holds the upper hand in negotiations due to time being on his side. With an impressive performance last season, where he played 44 games and maintained a .916 save percentage, Swayman has proven his worth. Grimson emphasized that Swayman’s leverage in negotiations is strong, and he is likely to use time to his advantage.
As the pressure mounts for Boston to secure Swayman before training camp begins, Grimson also speculated on the potential numbers of Swayman’s next contract. He suggested that the deal could start at around $6 million, considering the goaltender’s performance and the Bruins’ available cap space of approximately $8.6 million.
Grimson highlighted the mutual benefit for both Swayman and the Bruins in reaching a contract agreement. He believes that the two parties will work diligently to finalize a deal that accommodates Swayman’s contributions to the team and secures the Bruins’ goaltending position for the future.
In conclusion, Grimson’s analysis sheds light on the ongoing negotiations between Swayman and the Bruins, emphasizing the importance of reaching a timely agreement to ensure a successful season ahead. With both sides motivated to find a resolution, fans can expect a positive outcome that benefits both parties involved.
