Jeremy Swayman Controls Ullmark's Future with the Bruins

Jeremy Swayman is a 23-year-old goaltender entering his third season in the NHL. The Anchorage, Alaska native has played in 51 NHL games during his short career. This past season, he split playing-time with teammate Linus Ullmark as the starting netminder. How does Swayman control Ullmark's future?

Of course, we need to note that Linus Ullmark currently has a full-no-movement clause in his contract. Meaning the Bruins wouldn't be able to trade him this season (unless Ullmark waives his clause). Ullmark earns an annual-average-salary of $5M and, after the 2022–23 season, he has a M-NTC (allowing Boston to trade him). Remember, Boston needs cap in-order to sign both Jeremy Swayman and David Pastrnak after the conclusion of the 2022-23 season.

Swayman is the future in net for the Bruins after Tuukka Rask retired this past season. Boston has faith in the youngster, he is the only capable goalie in the system. This is a key year for Swayman. If the Alaska native plays well, Linus Ullmark will be moved next year. Why keep a $5M backup goaltender? The Bruins would love to move Ullmark if the time is right, freeing Ullmark's $5M salary. 

The Bruins are in a unique situation due to their aging core and low-end prospects. The Boston Bruins are in the final stretches of their Stanley Cup run. Moving Ullmark would bring in a key player or prospect, something the Bruins need.

Swayman shined during his first pro season. Swayman was signed to his entry-level contract after the 2019-2020 season. He was assigned to Providence in the AHL and quickly drew attention. Swayman played in nine American Hockey League games, winning eight. His statistics include a save percentage of .93 and a goals-against-average of 1.89.

That same season, the Bruins goaltenders (Tuukka Rask, Jaroslav Halak) were both battling injuries. Thus, the Bruins called up Swayman, who ended up winning the back-up goaltender spot from Halak. Swayman played in ten more games, posting a 1.5 goals-against-average and a .945 save percentage.This season, Swayman played a 50/50 role with recent signee Linus Ullmark. Swayman started the year strong before falling off near the end of the season. Nevertheless, he ended with a positive 23 wins and a .914 save percentage.

Swayman also came through clutch during the playoffs, where he took over for Linus Ullmark. The American played in five games and almost advanced Boston to the next round. He won three out of the five games he played in.

Linus Ullmark's future in Boston, is all on Jeremy Swayman's shoulders. It's now or never for Swayman.