Jeremy Swayman Back on Ice with Bruins, Ready for Playoffs

Boston Bruins players Jeremy Swayman and Charlie McAvoy have returned to the team’s practice rink after their recent gold medal victory with Team USA. Following a series of celebratory events that included a visit to the White House on Tuesday, Swayman was back on the ice for practice Wednesday, with head coach Marco Sturm confirming both players will join the Bruins for their morning skate on Thursday ahead of upcoming playoff games.

From International Celebrations to NHL Commitment

The US Olympic hockey squad experienced a fast-paced week spanning multiple cities, beginning in Milan, then Miami, and concluding in Washington, D.C. Now, these athletes have refocused on their NHL careers after concluding immediate post-Olympic celebrations. On Tuesday, alongside their appearance at the White House to honor their achievement, the team also attended the State of the Union address before returning to their respective teams for a renewed commitment to the season.

Speaking about the White House visit, Swayman described it as,

“We all were there to represent our country, celebrate a gold medal for the United States. That was something that we really embodied and were really grateful to be a part of.”

– Jeremy Swayman, Bruins Goaltender

He also acknowledged logistical challenges of the post-game celebrations, saying,

“It was a logistical nightmare, I’m sure, for our PR people, They did a great job of getting us back here, safe and sound. Again, we were just excited to come back to the US and get back to our respective jobs.”

– Jeremy Swayman, Bruins Goaltender

Addressing the Women’s Team Controversy

During the celebrations in Milan, a controversial moment involving former President Donald Trump occurred when he made an inappropriate comment about the US Women’s hockey team, who had also won gold by defeating Canada. The statement disrupted unity among hockey fans and players worldwide. Swayman reflected on the men’s team reaction, admitting the response was not appropriate. He emphasized their respect and admiration for the women’s team, stating,

“We should have reacted differently. We know that we are so excited for the women’s team, we have so much respect for the women’s team. To share that gold medal with them is something that we are forever grateful for. Now that we are home, we get to share that together forever and see the incredible support we have from the USA in sharing this incredible gold medal.”

– Jeremy Swayman, Bruins Goaltender

Celebrating Teammates and Leadership

After practice, Swayman also reflected on reconnecting with Bruins teammate Charlie McAvoy following their Olympic triumph. Their embrace symbolized mutual pride and respect, particularly highlighting McAvoy’s perseverance through adversity and leadership contributions. Swayman said,

“Yeah, it was a full embrace, man. That man is the most deserving on that team. The adversity that he’s been through, and just refused to get knocked down, and was a leader for us. Obviously, his play spoke for itself. It was tears coming down because I’m just so proud of him and his accomplishments and the way that he handled himself.”

– Jeremy Swayman, Bruins Goaltender

He continued,

“I get to see it first-hand, more than most of those guys on that team, what he does every day, for this team, for his family, for this community. And again, I couldn’t be more excited to share this medal with him forever.”

– Jeremy Swayman, Bruins Goaltender

Returning to Practice and Preparing for the Playoffs

Following practice, Bruins’ head coach Marco Sturm noted that Swayman chose to stay on the ice for extra sessions despite the late return from Olympic celebrations. Sturm said,

“That was totally his option today. These guys came in very late – I think 3, 4 AM, this morning. He wanted to come in and feel the ice, that’s all.”

– Marco Sturm, Bruins Head Coach

Swayman expressed eagerness to return to NHL competition, stating,

“Oh yeah. Yeah, I can’t wait to get back, and excited to get started, and again, whenever my name is called, I’ll be ready to go.”

– Jeremy Swayman, Bruins Goaltender

He also added,

“I want to be ready right now. It’s why I wanted to come here today. I couldn’t wait another day to get back and get back on the ice with these guys. So I can’t wait to get started and push for playoffs.”

– Jeremy Swayman, Bruins Goaltender

Playoff Hopes Resuming in Boston

The Bruins are positioned with 69 points, holding a four-point lead over the Columbus Blue Jackets for the second wild card slot in the playoff race. Their next matchup is against Columbus on Thursday night at TD Garden, where the team will rely on the contributions of returning players like Swayman and McAvoy to push deeper into the postseason. Sturm confirmed both athletes will skate at Thursday’s morning practice, emphasizing,

“and then we go from there.”

– Marco Sturm, Bruins Head Coach

With the Bruins’ playoff aspirations on the line, the return of Jeremy Swayman to the ice inspires hope and determination among fans and teammates alike, reinforcing the team’s drive towards another successful postseason run.