After a disastrous 2024-25 campaign, the Boston Bruins will be looking to get things back on track next season. The Bruins are hoping to be more competitive in 2025-26, especially after a busy off-season that saw them focus on improving their depth.
When looking at their current group, it is absolutely apparent who their biggest X-factor is heading into next season - goaltender Jeremy Swayman.
If the Bruins hope to have any chance of being a playoff team in 2025-26, they are going to need Swayman to have a significant bounce-back season. After signing his massive eight-year, $66 million contract at the start of the campaign, Swayman had struggled in his first season as Boston's true No. 1 goalie. In 58 games, he had a 22-29-7 record, a .892 save percentage, and a 3.11 goals-against average.
While Swayman's numbers from last season were certainly rough, he very well could turn things around with a clean slate heading into 2025-26. During his first four seasons with the Bruins, he was very good, as he had a .914 save percentage or better in each campaign. This included just back in 2023-24, as he had a 25-10-8 record, a .916 save percentage, and a 2.53 goals-against average. He also won the William M. Jennings Trophy with Linus Ullmark in 2022-23.
With all of this, there is no question that Swayman has the potential to be an impactful goaltender when playing at his best. If the Bruins hope to make a push for the playoffs, they will need him to regain his star form. If he does not and has another disappointing season, it would be bad news for a Bruins club that needs all the help it can get.
Thus, there is no question that Swayman is the Bruins' biggest X-factor heading into next season.
Bruins face crossroads as blockbuster trade rumor swirls around star goalie Swayman and potential Oilers rebuild deal
The Boston Bruins find themselves in a precarious position as they look ahead to the upcoming NHL season. After a dismal performance last season, the team remains adamant about its commitment to competitiveness. Yet, whispers of a potential rebuild are growing louder, especially given the valuable trade assets they possess. One name that has emerged in recent trade discussions is goaltender Jeremy Swayman, with speculation linking him to a blockbuster deal with the Edmonton Oilers.
According to reports, the proposed trade would see Swayman heading to Edmonton in exchange for a significant return. This deal would not only provide the Oilers with a franchise-caliber goalie but also bolster the Bruins’ roster with fresh talent and valuable draft picks.
In this hypothetical arrangement, the Bruins would receive:
On the other side, trading Swayman would leave a void in the Bruins’ net. As one of the NHL’s top goalies, he has seven years remaining on his lucrative eight-year, $66 million contract. Last season, he posted a record of 22-29-7 with a GAA of 3.11 and a .892 SV%. While he would need to approve any trade, a rebuilding phase in Boston could make the move appealing for Swayman.
The Oilers are in dire need of a reliable starting goalie, given the inconsistency exhibited by Skinner and Calvin Pickard. Acquiring Swayman would help solidify their goaltending situation as they aim for a deeper playoff run.
Despite the swirling rumors, there are indications that the Bruins may not be inclined to trade their star goalie. An insider revealed that while teams, including Edmonton, have shown interest, the Bruins have consistently expressed their desire to retain Swayman. General manager Don Sweeney has reportedly rebuffed inquiries, emphasizing the team’s commitment to signing him and their valuation of his contributions.
As the NHL Draft and free agency approach, the situation remains fluid. The Bruins will need to weigh their options carefully as they navigate the crossroads of their franchise’s direction. Whether they decide to rebuild or remain competitive, the fate of Jeremy Swayman is likely to play a pivotal role in their decision-making process.
