Jeremy Swayman is reminding everyone why he was once considered one of the NHL’s top up-and-coming goaltenders - and he’s doing it with authority.
After a tough 2024-25 campaign that saw him lead the league in goals against (176), Swayman has come roaring back this fall, flipping the narrative and putting himself squarely in the Vezina Trophy conversation. Just a year removed from finishing seventh in the Vezina voting, the 27-year-old is now being talked about as the frontrunner for the award - and for good reason.
Through the early stretch of the season, Swayman has posted a .915 save percentage and an 11-6-0 record, anchoring a Bruins team that’s sitting at 15-12-0 heading into December. His goals-against average is down to 2.62, and he’s consistently outperforming expectations - literally.
According to advanced metrics, he’s saving just over one goal above expected per game. That kind of impact isn’t just good - it’s game-changing.
What’s been most impressive is how Swayman has separated himself from the rest of the field. He currently holds a three-goal edge in goals saved above expected over fellow American netminder Spencer Knight, another rising star. That margin may not sound massive, but in a league where elite goaltending often comes down to razor-thin differences, it’s significant.
Swayman’s resurgence has also helped elevate Boston’s overall play. While the Bruins have had their ups and downs this season, they’ve managed to stay above .500 largely because of their goaltending - and Swayman’s been the backbone.
Alongside Joonas Korpisalo, the Bruins’ goalie tandem was recently ranked fifth-best in the league, and it’s clear why. Korpisalo has provided stability, but it’s Swayman who’s been the difference-maker.
This version of Swayman looks confident, composed, and in control - a stark contrast to last season’s struggles. His rebound isn’t just a feel-good story; it’s a masterclass in mental toughness and technical refinement. He’s tracking the puck better, controlling rebounds more consistently, and showing the kind of poise that top-tier goalies need when the pressure ramps up.
If he keeps this up, the Vezina conversation won’t just include Swayman - it might revolve around him.