The popular hockey podcast "Spittin' Chiclets" has come under fire from Boston Bruins general manager Don Sweeney for spreading rumors about unsigned starting goaltender Jeremy Swayman.
At the start of September, Spittin' Chiclets host Ryan Whitney claimed the Bruins had not contacted or returned Swayman's calls for three weeks amid contentious contract negotiations.
Sweeney firmly denied this:
"I think it's bullshit that somebody says I wouldn't return a call for three weeks."
"My son loves Biz [Paul Bissonnette], thinks he's fabulous. I think he's a great entertainer. But at the end of the day, it's inaccurate," Sweeney told as per NHL.com.
Paul Bissonnette, who co-hosts Spittin' Chiclets jumped to the defense of the show's reporting.
"I love Don. I love Don’s son. I love lamp. Although Don is reporting fake news about fake news, apparently. I did not report 1 thing about the Swayman signing. It was Squanto’s father who reported it. I stand by my partner," Paul Bissonnette tweeted.
The 25-year-old Swayman is coming off an impressive season for Boston with a 2.34 goals against average and a .919 save percentage.
As a restricted free agent, he remains without a contract with training camp looming. Negotiations have reportedly been contentious, leading to rumors of discord between Swayman's camp and the Bruins management.
Fans react to Paul Bissonnette coming to Spittin' Chiclets ' defense
Paul Bissonnette's defense of the Spittin' Chiclets podcast crew after Don Sweeney's criticism has sparked a reaction amongst fans online.
One fan didn't hold back, accusing the podcast of building their brand on amplifying rumors.
"You get clicks and build your brand by creating an organization that thrives on amplifying any rumor. Don't pose as an innocent bystander on this one."
Another fan seemed to relish the drama, declaring,
"There's nothing like a podcaster and GM beef. NHL is officially back baby." on X.
Here are some fan reactions:
"A few more BS narratives Biz and you will be set up to run for office in the US." one fan joked.
"Yeh, as B’s fan agreed. Don’t apologize. U are probably responsible for any deal getting done tbh. Especially if Donny Jr weighing in. Trading Ullmark before wrapping up Swayman gave Sway all the leverage so now overpay. Bad mgmt move. Misdirecting anger." another fan noted.
"It's not good airing out contract issues in public. It's going to get personal on both sides real quick." a user commented.
"your podcast has become extremely boring to watch FYI." another fan commented.
Swayman must sign a new deal by December 1 to be eligible to play this NHL season.
The Bruins are set to kick off their preseason schedule against the New York Rangers on September 22.