The Boston Bruins’ sluggish start to the season has raised eyebrows, with speculation about what might be behind their struggles. Among the potential factors is Jeremy Swayman’s recent contract saga and its possible effects on team chemistry. In an analysis by Fluto Shinzawa of The Athletic, Swayman took a hardline stance with the Bruins during arbitration, and the resulting delay in his signing may have caused ripples within the locker room.
Swayman’s Contract Controversy
Swayman’s arbitration standoff last offseason became a focal point. Determined to maximize his earnings, he held out. In one way, he was successful and ultimately secured a significant contract. However, the drawn-out process meant Swayman missed valuable training camp time, which some argue hindered his preparation. The impact of this delay is now in the spotlight as the Bruins navigate a rough patch in the early season.
While Shinzawa stopped short of declaring Swayman a scapegoat, he suggested tension among teammates might be brewing. He noted that Swayman’s slow start to the season and inability to deliver game-stealing performances have compounded the Bruins’ issues. A goalie’s role often extends beyond stopping pucks; they must also inspire confidence, especially during stretches of poor team play.
Former Head Coach Montgomery and Teammates’ Commentary
Now former-head coach Jim Montgomery weighed in on the issue, subtly pointing to Swayman’s absence from training camp contributing to his current struggles. Montgomery stated, “I don’t think missing training camp helps anyone. That’s why you have training camps.”
For his part, Swayman seems aware of the scrutiny. He acknowledged the challenges of rebuilding trust and camaraderie within the team. He noted, “I’m really trying to engulf just being in the room again… I want my play to speak for that.” His focus now seems to be on regaining confidence and earning back his teammates’ trust through improved performance.
Bruins’ Locker Room Dynamics
Paul Bissonnette of Spittin’ Chiclets suggested that the Bruins might need to focus on team bonding to address any underlying tension. “I think the Bruins can turn it around,” Bissonnette said. “They need a team party meeting or something. Have they had a rookie party yet? Some form of team bonding? Father’s trip?”
His remarks underline the importance of team cohesion, particularly for a Bruins squad facing adversity.
The pressure is mounting for Swayman to step up. Shinzawa pointed out, “Swayman’s priority is to find his confidence, clean up his game, and prove to his teammates that he was right to play hardball.” If Swayman continues to falter, his standing in the dressing room could diminish further, leaving him increasingly isolated.
Final Thoughts About the Bruins and Swayman’s Place on the Team
While it’s too early to say that Swayman has lost the Bruins locker room, his contract saga and subsequent play are undoubtedly under the microscope. His ability to rebound—both in terms of his play and his relationships with teammates—will be critical as the Bruins try to turn their season around.
Swayman has shown in the past that he can deliver elite performances. If he can recapture that form, he could help Boston regain its footing and reestablish himself as a cornerstone of the team’s success. But so far, it hasn’t happened.
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