Jeremy Swayman makes arbitration decision hinting at his future with Bruins

Boston Bruins goaltender Jeremy Swayman is not going for arbitration this year. Swayman did not have easy sailing, especially during the arbitration period last offseason. This decision probably means that Swayman and the Bruins will settle their contract soon.

"Jeremy Swayman did not file for arbitration with the Bruins," Sportsnet tweeted on X.

Bruins general manager Don Sweeney said during the regular season that re-signing Swayman is the team's top priority.

"Sweeney said the focus is on getting him locked up, with another trip to arbitration not an option," Mike Zeisberger said (via NHL.com).

The Bruins used their massive cap space to sign Elias Lindholm and Nikita Zadorov to long-term contracts this offseason. They now have about $8.6 million in cap space available. Swayman's latest deal is projected to pay much more than his prior compensation of $3.475 million. He is a restricted-free agent.

But the Bruins are still free to submit an arbitration and the deadline is Saturday at 5 p.m. ET. However, Swayman’s decision to steer clear of arbitration indicates that he expects contract negotiations to advance with the Bruins soon.

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Jeremy Swayman's new deal: What does it look like on a new contract?

Jeremy Swayman was awarded a $3.475 million contract in arbitration for the 2023–24 season, making him a restricted free agent once again. Swayman had a great season, going 25-10-8 with a 2.53 goals-against average. He has a .916 save percentage, three shutouts, and a solid playoff performance (.933 save percentage in 12 appearances).

Swayman shared goaltending duties with Linus Ullmark, who was traded to the Ottawa Senators in the offseason.

According to Evolving Hockey, the likelihood of a four-year, $25.012 million contract is 33%. According to Fluto Shinzawa and Dom Luszczyszyn of The Athletic, the next best option at 19% is a six-year, $36.93 million contract.

GM Don Sweeney is keeping Swayman on priority of re-signing him without arbitration. With Linus Ullmark traded for Joonas Korpisalo, Mark Kastelic, and a 2024 first-round pick, Swayman is expected to start around 55 games in the 2024–25 season, following a career-high 43 starts last season.