What's Happening?
The Boston Bruins are looking to bounce back after missing the playoffs last season for the first time since 2016. With Marco Sturm as the new coach and a healthier team, the Bruins hope to start fresh this fall. Central to their plans is goaltender Jeremy Swayman, who signed an eight-year, $66 million contract last year. However, contract disputes kept him out of training camp, leading to a disappointing season with career lows in performance. Swayman has since rebuilt his game, helping Team USA win the World Championship gold, and is eager to prove himself as the Bruins' long-term solution in net.
Why It's Important?
The Bruins' success this season largely hinges on Swayman's performance. With Linus Ullmark traded, Boston has committed to Swayman as their primary goaltender. His ability to meet expectations will be crucial for the team's return to contention. The front office has made changes, including hiring Marco Sturm and adding depth to the roster, to support a more stable season. If Swayman can deliver, the Bruins have a realistic chance of competing at a high level again, but failure could lead to another disappointing year.
What's Next?
The Bruins will begin their 2025-26 season on October 8 against the Washington Capitals. The team's success will depend on Swayman's ability to perform consistently and meet the expectations set by his contract. The Bruins have made strategic changes to support a better season, but the pressure is on Swayman to prove he can lead the team back to the playoffs.
