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This Boston Bruins netminder should be a lock for Team USA’s 2026 Olympic roster despite competition from other worthy contenders.
The deadline for Team USA’s 2026 Olympic roster is right around the corner. Despite some open spots, there’s a roster spot that won’t be up for debate. That spot belongs to Boston Bruins netminder Jeremy Swayman.
Swayman was on Team USA’s roster for the 4 Nations Face-Off last year. This time around, the Bruins’ netminder should join Connor Hellebuyck of the Winnipeg Jets and Jake Oettinger of the Dallas Stars.
As a December 23 piece by Michael Russo in The Athletic noted, Swayman should hold off other contenders for the third open spot in Team USA’s crease.
Russo wrote:
“Swayman, who was also on the 4 Nations roster, might have seemed in danger of falling off after a tough 2024-25 season. But he has bounced back this season and proven he belongs on the team.”
Swayman faces some strong competition from Spencer Knight of the Chicago Blackhawks and Thatcher Demko of the Vancouver Canucks. Demko, in particular, is an elite goaltender when healthy. And that’s precisely the issue. Swayman hasn’t had any injury issues with the Bruins. Demko, meanwhile, has had persistent injury issues this season.
It’s worth pointing out that the Bruins’ netminder has made a compelling case to be on Team USA. He backstopped the American side to its first goal medal since 1933 at the IIHF World Championships earlier this year. That’s something that Team USA management will keep close to heart when making its final roster cuts.
Swayman Could Play Bigger Role Depending on Injuries
Hellebuyck spent some time on the shelf this season. He’s rebounded well and back on the ice. But that doesn’t preclude the Jets’ star goalie from sharing the load. Swayman, for his part, has been a workhorse for the Bruins. As such, Swayman would be ready to take over in case Hellebuyck needs a break.
Of course, the most immediate reaction would be for Team USA coach Mike Sullivan to turn to Oettinger if need be. But then again, Sullivan may choose to split the workload among his goalies.
The biggest difference between the Olympics and the 4 Nations lies in the number of games. At the 4 Nations, the US played about four games. At the Olympics, the number could be twice as much.
That’s why having two or more capable goalies means allowing each netminder to get a break to avoid overworking one goalie.
Swayman Will Have One Other Bruins Teammate on Team USA
In addition to Swayman, the Bruins will likely have Charlie McAvoy on Team USA’s roster. Unless McAvoy can’t go for some reason, Boston will have two reps on the American squad.
Swayman and McAvoy will join David Pastrnak, who will be the Bruins’ rep on Czechia. Beyond Boston’s top three stars, others could make their respective rosters.
For instance, Bruins backup goaltender Joonas Korpisalo could be an option for Team Finland. Other players like Hampus Lindholm could make Team Sweden’s roster.
Then, there’s another Bruins’ star. Morgan Geekie, who’s had a breakout season, might be a dark horse to make Team Canada. He’s a bit of a long shot at this point. But both the United States and Canada’s coaching staffs could be looking to roll with the hot hands. If that’s the case, Geekie could get his foot in the door for the 2026 Olympics.
Nestor Quixtan Seasoned NHL analyst and baseball writer focused on covering clubs across each league with news, analysis, and insights. Originally from Toronto, Canada, Nestor’s singular experiences and background have enabled him to bring a different take on the sports world as a whole. Nestor’s fondness for baseball and hockey set the tone for his love and passion for writing about sports. More about Nestor Quixtan
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