Korpisalo Announces Departure from Bruins, But Leaves Door Open for Return
BOSTON — Boston Bruins goaltender Joonas Korpisalo has officially announced his departure from the team after one season, but the veteran netminder has not ruled out a return, providing specific terms under which he would be willing to reconsider.
The 31-year-old Finnish goaltender, who signed a three-year deal with Boston in July 2024, revealed his decision in a statement through his agent Tuesday morning. While confirming his intent to move on, Korpisalo indicated that continued dialogue with Bruins management could potentially lead to a resolution.
“After thoughtful reflection, I’ve decided to step away from the Bruins organization,” Korpisalo said. “However, I want to make it clear that my respect for this team and this city remains strong. I’m open to further discussions if certain conditions can be met that align with my goals and expectations moving forward.”
Korpisalo, who appeared in 42 regular-season games for Boston in 2024–25, posted a 20-15-5 record with a .910 save percentage and a 2.68 goals-against average. He split goaltending duties with rookie Brandon Boucher throughout the season, a rotation that reportedly created some uncertainty regarding his long-term role.
Terms for Potential Return
Markus Lehtinen, Korpisalo’s agent, elaborated on the goalie’s position during a press conference in Helsinki.
“Joonas is not closing the door on Boston,” Lehtinen said. “He is simply looking for clarity. The main conditions for reconsideration include: a defined starting role, open and consistent communication from the coaching staff, and a possible revision to the current contract structure to reflect his responsibilities.”
Lehtinen emphasized that the request was “not about money,” but rather about “respect, transparency, and alignment with the team’s competitive goals.”
Korpisalo is currently in the first year of a three-year, $12.75 million contract signed last summer. Sources close to the situation say that discussions around workload and long-term planning between the player and the Bruins front office had been ongoing since late March.
Bruins Yet to Respond Officially
As of Tuesday afternoon, the Bruins have not issued an official response to Korpisalo’s announcement or his stated terms. General Manager Don Sweeney is expected to address the media later this week during the club’s offseason briefing.
A source familiar with the team’s internal discussions indicated that Boston has “not ruled anything out” and views Korpisalo’s concerns as “reasonable and worth considering.”
Should negotiations not move forward, Korpisalo would likely draw interest on the trade market or as a potential buyout candidate, given his experience and recent performance. Teams with a need for veteran goaltending — including the Los Angeles Kings, New Jersey Devils, and San Jose Sharks — may explore options.
Locker Room Reaction
Inside the Bruins locker room, news of Korpisalo’s potential departure was met with both understanding and appreciation.
“Joonas was great for us this season — a pro on and off the ice,” said captain Charlie McAvoy. “We’d love to have him back, but we respect that everyone has to make the best decision for themselves and their career.”
Brandon Boucher, who made 35 appearances during his rookie season, credited Korpisalo with mentoring him during a transitional year.
“He helped me adjust to the league faster,” Boucher said. “He’s someone I looked up to. If there’s a way for us both to contribute, I think it would be a win for the team.”
What’s Next?
Whether Korpisalo returns to the Bruins or pursues a new opportunity, his decision will be one of several key goaltending storylines heading into the 2025–26 season.
“I’m not in a rush,” Korpisalo said. “I’ve made my position clear and I’m open to continuing the conversation. Boston has been good to me. Now it’s about seeing if our visions still align.”
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