With training camp about to begin, the Boston Bruins face several intriguing roster battles, one of the most prominent being the backup goaltender position. Jeremy Swayman is the team's undisputed starter, but the competition to be his backup is fierce. Michael DiPietro and Joonas Korpisalo are the two main contenders vying for the role.
DiPietro's case is strengthened by the Bruins' recent decision to sign him to a new two-year, one-way contract with an annual value of $1.6 million. This contract signals the Bruins' belief in his potential and gives him a genuine opportunity to compete for the backup role. There's a growing sentiment within the organization to give younger players a chance, which further aligns with DiPietro's situation. DiPietro has showcased his abilities with the Providence Bruins in the American Hockey League (AHL) over the past two seasons. In the 2023-24 season, he recorded a 2.51 goals-against average (GAA) and a .918 save percentage (SV%), followed by an even stronger 2024-25 season with a 2.05 GAA and a .927 SV%, including four shutouts for the second consecutive year. Having worked with goalie development coach Mike Dunham in Providence, DiPietro now has the chance to collaborate with Bruins goalie coach Bob Essensa and translate his AHL success to the NHL level.
Korpisalo, on the other hand, joined the Bruins from the Ottawa Senators and served as Swayman's backup last season. However, he openly expressed his dissatisfaction with his playing time, indicating a desire for a more significant role. Korpisalo stated that he doesn't believe any goalie in the league is comfortable playing only 20-25 games and that he would push for more ice time. He has a track record of being a starting goalie, with five seasons of 30 or more starts, including a career-high of 49 starts in the 2023-24 season. With Swayman firmly entrenched as the starter, Korpisalo's aspirations for more playing time might not be realized in Boston.
The Bruins' general manager, Don Sweeney, faces a challenging decision. He must weigh DiPietro's potential and Korpisalo's experience and desire for more playing time. The Bruins might consider trading one of the goalies, as there would likely be several teams interested in acquiring either player. Another factor to consider is the salary cap implications. DiPietro's lower cap hit could be advantageous for the Bruins, who are always looking to maximize their cap space.
Training camp will provide a platform for both goalies to showcase their abilities and make their case for the backup role. Swayman, who missed last year's training camp due to contract negotiations, is expected to play in a couple of games, while Korpisalo and DiPietro will have the opportunity to prove themselves in the remaining games. Ultimately, the Bruins' decision will depend on their evaluation of each goalie's performance during training camp and their assessment of the team's overall needs. The Bruins' training camp begins on September 17, with the first on-ice practice occurring the following day. Their first preseason game is scheduled for September 21 against the Washington Capitals.
