Bruins’ Jeremy Swayman shares his process of creating a new post-win tradition after parting ways with Linus Ullmark

By Nestor Quixtan

Modified Jul 07, 2024 22:58 GMT

The Boston Bruins' RFA goaltender Jeremy Swayman recently said he plans to start a new post-win tradition. Last season, Jeremy Swayman and Linus Ullmark had a particular celebration following every win, in which both goaltenders would hug regardless of who played.

The tradition became so popular that it evolved as part of the Boston Bruins’ identity. However, this offseason, the Bruins dealt Ullmark to the Ottawa Senators. This situation left Swayman with a new goaltending partner, former Senator Joonas Korpisalo.

Now, Jeremy Swayman is eager to start a new tradition with the newly acquired Korpisalo. Swayman recently posted the following comments on Cameo:

“I know we don’t have the hug anymore but there’s still going to be something going on after Bruins games, I can only imagine.”

Swayman’s comments bode well for this upcoming season, as both netminders will be looking to replicate the success Swayman and Ullmark had last season.

Swayman added:

“Hopefully (Korpisalo) and I are going to find something cool, and we’ll keep that tradition going. No doubt.”

Jeremy Swayman is currently an RFA. The Bruins and Swayman opted to pass on salary arbitration, given the rather unpleasant experience both sides had last season. This time around, it seems the two sides are confident they can figure out a way to keep the rising star in Boston for the foreseeable future.

Jeremy Swayman in contract negotiations with the Bruins

Swayman’s decision to pass on arbitration has fueled speculation about how and when he could sign with Boston. In particular, fans seem edgy about the time it has taken Boston to get Swayman’s signature on a new deal.

However, the economics of hockey don’t make signing players quite so easy. According to CapFriendly, the Bruins have about $8.6 million in available cap space. That cap space is available to fill all of the club’s remaining needs, including Swayman’s new contract.

With Swayman believed to get anywhere from $5 to $7 million per season, the Bruins have little cap room to spare. In fact, Swayman’s new contract could essentially gobble up almost all of that remaining cap space.

This situation means the Bruins may be forced to clear room. While there don’t seem to be any pending free agents to sign this season, Boston will have several free agents next season, including captain Brad Marchand.

These upcoming situations play a significant role in determining how much the Bruins can afford to pay Swayman. Whatever happens, one thing is certain: The Bruins will do everything they can to keep Swayman in Beantown.