Once again, the Boston Bruins boasted the NHL’s top goalie tandem this season, with Jeremy Swayman and Linus Ullmark sharing the crease for three seasons. Ullmark’s standout performance in 2022-23 earned him the Vezina Trophy, posting impressive stats with a 40-6-1 record, .938 save percentage, and 1.89 goals-against average, while Swayman also delivered solid numbers.
However, in the following season, Swayman took on a more prominent role, leading in starts and maintaining strong performance, while Ullmark remained consistent.
Despite speculation about Ullmark’s potential trade destinations, fueled by his limited no-trade clause, he ultimately stayed with the Bruins. Yet, with Swayman emerging as the probable future in the net for Boston, Ullmark’s availability in trade discussions persists, raising questions about the duo’s dynamic.
You stay! You stay! pic.twitter.com/Bmd3gNP37n
— Marina Maher (@marinakmaher) March 10, 2024
Analysts debate the rationale behind potentially dismantling a successful goalie tandem, highlighting Ullmark’s contractual situation and the Bruins’ capacity to negotiate a trade. While Swayman appears poised to take the lead, the value of a reliable backup goalie in today’s NHL is not underestimated, particularly considering the vital role goaltending plays in a team’s success.