NHL Rumors Roundup: Top Insider shares update on RFAs Swayman, Jarvis, Perfetti and more
NHL Insider David Pagnotta provided updates on some of the top remaining restricted free agents (RFAs) while speaking with NHL Network.
Among the most notable RFAs still without contracts are Boston Bruins goaltender Jeremy Swayman, Detroit Red Wings forwards Lucas Raymond & Jonathan Berggren, New Jersey Devils' Dawson Mercer and Winnipeg Jets' Cole Perfetti.
On Swayman, Pagnotta said (via NHL Network):
"Look, conversations are ongoing, Jim Montgomery speaking he's confident that they'll be get something done that Swayman will be at camp. Both side seem, again pretty positive that they're gonna get there before camp in the next few weeks."
Regarding Carolina Hurricanes forward Seth Jarvis, Pagnotta believes the team is close to finalizing an extension:
"Seth Jarvis, I believe they're pretty close to an eight-year extension, that seems to be the word on the street... perhaps even $7.5 million AAV. It sounds like they're pretty much right there with resect to the new extension for Seth Jarvis," he said.
In contrast, talks have not progressed as far for Raymond and Mercer. While discussions are ongoing, the two sides are reportedly described as "not close" to an extension yet. However, there is no major concern from either side at this stage.
As for Berggren, he is expected to sign either a one-year contract or a short multi-year deal in time for training camp.
Speaking of Perfetti, Pagnotta indicated that both sides do not seem close to an agreement. If no long-term deal can be reached, a two-year bridge contract worth $4 million or more per season may be likely.
However, if Winnipeg wants to lock him up long-term, Perfetti would likely be open to that at a higher salary cap hit.
NHL Rumors: Jeremy Swayman's $10M extension
Swayman is reportedly seeking a $10 million per year contract extension, according to WEEI's Rich Keefe:
"Jeremy Swayman, looking for $10 million a year. That is the scoop that I have. He is looking for $10 million a year...," Keefe said.
At $10 million per year, Swayman would become one of the highest-paid goalies in the NHL. However, the Bruins currently only have around $8.6 million in cap space available for next season (as per Puckpedia).
So, a $10 million AAV contract for Swayman does not appear feasible for Boston at this time unless they make other roster moves to clear cap space.