BOSTON — Jeremy Swayman made his season debut for the Bruins in Boston’s 6-4 victory over the Montreal Canadiens at TD Garden on Thursday night.
After signing an eight-year contract extension with the Bruins on Sunday, Swayman only had one practice and one pregame skate before the season opener against the Florida Panthers on Tuesday night. So, Jim Montgomery gave Joonas Korpisalo the start while Swayman served as his backup.
With Florida dominating the game 5-1 in the second period, the Panthers fans began chanting, “We want Swayman.” Sitting on the Bruins bench, Swayman could hear the chants loud and clear.
“It’s part of the game,” Swayman told reporters. “They’re going to do their tactics to be part of the game, and they do a good job of that. So, again, I want to play every game. I want to be in the net every chance I get. I’m excited to get that opportunity.”
Swayman won’t have to wait long to face Florida if Montgomery gives him the nod on Monday afternoon. The Panthers come to TD Garden for a holiday matinee matchup.
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Swayman missed all of Bruins’ training camp and preseason action due to contract negotiations. He said the hardest thing to get into a rhythm between the pipes is just the flow of the game itself.
“Reading the most dangerous guy on the ice,” Swayman said. “… So, just getting the flow back. And I know exactly what I need to do. … I think I have a pretty good formula for how I can prepare to play at my best, and that’s the experience that I’ve gained in the last four years. It’s perfecting my craft, perfecting my recovery, my warmups, and everything I need to do to prepare. I’m excited for it, and it’s something you’ve got to earn every night.
“I know that this a tough lineup to crack, and we want it that way. Korpi and I are going to do everything we can to push each other and elevate our game so we can do whatever we can to help the Boston Bruins win more games.”
Featured image via Bob DeChiara/Imagn Images
