Report: Bruins & Jeremy Swayman 'Splitting Hairs' in Negotiations

The Boston Bruins and starting goaltender Jeremy Swayman remain significantly apart in contract negotiations, according to the latest information shared by Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman while appearing on NHL Network on September 4 .

With training camp approaching, there has yet to be a resolution to the standoff between the restricted free agent and the team, as both parties seem to still be far apart in the goalie's valuation.

Friedman joined Jamieson Coyle and Mike Johnson and downplayed any immediate concerns, noting that while the timeline may be pressing, there’s still room to work things out.

"I’m not (surprised) because there’s always something that go on to at this time of year," Friedman said. "And to be honest, there’s still time.

"I know people will talk about, 'Hey, we don’t want this to go into training camp.' There’s always one that goes to right into training camp or a bit later.” Friedman said.

Friedman also addressed recent rumors suggesting Swayman was asking for $10 million per year and clarified that the request was closer to the $9.5 million range, matching Bruins defenseman Charlie McAvoy’s salary.

“I didn't hear that," Friedman said. "What I heard was the ask was around the Charlie McAvoy number, but it’s not that far.

"At that point in time, we’re splitting hairs, and the Bruins just weren’t close to that."

Swayman’s hard stance appears to stem from his previous arbitration experience, which Friedman described as a “hard introduction into the business side” of the NHL.

“Swayman saw what happened when some of his teammates pushed the line. The Bruins say, ‘No, this is our number,’ but once it’s settled, you’re a Bruin, and they take care of you,” Friedman said.

While the two parties remain at odds, Friedman left the door open for a quick resolution.

“One phone call can change that,” Friedman said.

As things stand, the Bruins have $8.6 million in projected cap space entering the season with Swayman their lone pending free agent, meaning they'd need to cut or trade someone to open enough room to meet the goalie's reported demand.

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