The Boston Bruins are making early moves ahead of NHL free agency, and one of their latest signings could signal a shift in the team’s goaltending plans.
On Monday, general manager Don Sweeney continued tying down several of the Bruins’ restricted free agents, including Marat Khusnutdinov, Michael Callahan, Henri Jokiharju, John Beecher, and goaltender Michael DiPietro. This comes just a week after the team extended Mason Lohrei, keeping much of their young core intact.
But it’s the decision to re-sign DiPietro that’s raised eyebrows.
A Move That Points to Change Between the Pipes
DiPietro’s new deal potentially puts Joonas Korpisalo’s place in Boston under the spotlight. After a strong season as Jeremy Swayman’s backup in the 2024–25 season, Korpisalo found himself on the outside looking in. The Finnish goaltender was acquired from Ottawa in a trade that sent Linus Ullmark the other way, and while he showed signs of improvement under goalie coach Bob Essensa, he never truly settled.
Korpisalo wrapped up the season with an 11-10-3 record, a 2.90 goals-against average, and a .893 save percentage. Those numbers were slightly better than his stint in Ottawa, but still left room for concern. By the end of the year, he was reportedly frustrated with his limited role, and tensions rose further when his agent issued an ultimatum to the Bruins: play him or trade him.
With Boston showing a commitment of over $8 million annually to Swayman, Korpisalo’s prospects for more time to play will always looked slim.
Cap Flexibility and Future Plans
DiPietro’s re-signing now gives the Bruins a strong reason to explore trade options for Korpisalo, whose $3 million cap hit could be better allocated elsewhere. Boston’s front office is expected to be aggressive this offseason, and gaining cap flexibility is a top priority.
Reports had suggested DiPietro would attract attention if he hit the open market on July 1, but the Bruins acted early to lock him down. With DiPietro staying and Korpisalo possibly on the way out, this offseason could mark a key transition in Boston’s goaltending hierarchy.
As the free agency window approaches, all signs point to a reshuffle — and the front office might not be done just yet.
