With each preseason game that passes, signing Jeremy Swayman becomes an increasingly urgent priority for the Bruins.
As training camp approaches its halfway mark, the major story for the Boston Bruins is that Jeremy Swayman has yet to report. After needing arbitration last summer, neither Swayman nor the team pursued it this year, which many viewed as a positive sign for a potential agreement.
However, with less than two weeks until their season opener against the defending Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers, the situation remains unresolved. The Panthers, who have eliminated the Bruins in the past two postseasons, will host Boston as they raise their championship banner.
The Bruins have played three preseason games, and a key takeaway is the urgent need to resolve the Swayman situation and secure their future franchise goalie. Failing to do so could turn what has been the team’s strongest position into a potential weakness.
Despite the preseason games not impacting the standings, the performance of the goaltenders is worrisome. Brandon Bussi has had an inconsistent showing, allowing four goals on 32 shots in a 5-2 loss to the Rangers, with rebound control being a major issue.
Michael DiPietro’s performance has been even worse; he conceded a weak goal to the Rangers and struggled again against the Capitals, failing to control a rebound on his first shot faced.
In contrast, Joonas Korpisalo performed better than expected in his single appearance against Washington, effectively tracking the puck despite facing only seven shots.
If Swayman remains unsigned, the Bruins may have to start the season with a Korpisalo/Bussi duo, raising concerns given Korpisalo’s rough previous season with Ottawa.
The Bruins also face a tough October schedule, including two games against the Panthers, a trip to Colorado, and matches against playoff teams like the Predators, Stars, Maple Leafs, and Hurricanes. If goaltending issues arise, the Bruins could find themselves in a tough position in the standings by November. With each passing day, signing Swayman becomes increasingly critical.
