The Boston Bruins and goalkeeper Jeremy Swayman have decided not to go to arbitration and instead focus on extending their deal.
Given how last year’s discussions between the Boston Bruins and Jeremy Swayman proceeded, particularly the two sides going to arbitration, which the goalkeeper did not enjoy, it’s not surprise that the two sides avoided doing the same thing this year. The Bruins and their starting goaltender couldn’t agree on a contract, so arbitration resulted in a one-year, $3.475 million deal for the then-24-year-old. The two sides have now agreed to forego arbitration in 2024 in favor of negotiating a long-term agreement.
The arbitration experience left Swayman dissatisfied with the process, a sentiment shared by the Bruins. As the deadline for filing for arbitration has past, both parties have agreed to continue discussing until a settlement is reached. The Bruins have $8.6 million in cap room to use on Swayman’s contract.
What About an Offer Sheet for Swayman?
The disadvantage of both sides avoiding arbitration is that Swayman, as a restricted free agent (RFA), has the option to sign an offer sheet with another team. Any offer that exceeds their $8.6 million in space may complicate matters for Boston. According to CapFriendly, the Buffalo Sabres, Detroit Red Wings, Montreal Canadiens, Nashville Predators, New York Islanders, Philadelphia Flyers, and Seattle Kraken are among the teams that may sign Swayman to a contract worth more than that.
However, certain factors reduce the likelihood of receiving an offer sheet. When the Sabres and Red Wings sign their remaining restricted free agents, they will have limited cap room. Meanwhile, the Predators and Islanders both have established goaltenders. Offer sheets are uncommon.
No Arbitration Is Probably Good News for the Bruins and Swayman
Arbitration is often employed when a player and team are unable to reach an agreement on a new contract, which is commonly centered on pay issues. Last year, the Bruins and Swayman were too far away to reach an agreement peacefully. This year, avoiding arbitration indicates that both sides are getting closer to reaching common ground.
Finally, the avoidance of arbitration is a favorable sign for both Swayman and the Bruins. With all parties now focusing on a mutually beneficial extension, the next steps in securing Swayman’s future in Boston sound encouraging.
