The Boston Bruins have officially signed Billy Sweezey, a 28-year-old defenseman, in a low-risk move to strengthen Jim Montgomery’s roster. A native of Hanson, Massachusetts, Sweezey brings local pride and professional experience to the Bruins as he looks to make his mark on the NHL.
Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 205 pounds, Sweezey signed a two-year, two-way contract with the Bruins this July. Having spent the majority of his professional career in the American Hockey League (AHL), this opportunity is a dream come true for Sweezey, who is one of 18 defensemen in camp vying for a spot on the NHL roster.
“It’s been an amazing experience,” said Sweezey. “Growing up here and now having the chance to wear the ‘B’ on my chest is special for me and my family. It’s been a blast.”
Sweezey made a solid impression during the Bruins’ recent exhibition game against the New York Rangers, which ended in a 3-2 loss. In the game, Sweezey assisted on Boston’s opening goal just over a minute into the contest, showcasing his offensive instincts. His slapshot from the right point set up teammate Cole Koepke to score on a rebound.
Sweezey, a Yale University graduate with a degree in biomedical engineering, started his professional career on an AHL contract with the Pittsburgh Penguins in 2020-21. He later signed with the Columbus Blue Jackets, where he made his NHL debut during the 2022-23 season, playing nine games. One of his most memorable moments came in Boston, where he fought Bruins forward Jakub Lauko in front of his family and friends at TD Garden.
“That was my first real taste of the NHL,” Sweezey recalled. “It was an unbelievable experience.”
Last season, Sweezey returned to the AHL, playing for the Cleveland Monsters, the Blue Jackets’ affiliate, where he registered a goal and three assists. After three years with the Blue Jackets, Sweezey sought a fresh challenge and found it with his hometown team.
“I felt it was time for a change,” Sweezey said. “I’m grateful for my time in Columbus, but I’m excited for this new opportunity.”
Sweezey is part of a group of five Massachusetts natives at Bruins training camp, including veteran Charlie Coyle (Weymouth), Marc McLaughlin (Billerica), Riley Duran (Woburn), and defenseman Mike Callahan (Franklin). He faces stiff competition on the Bruins’ blueline, with established defensemen like Charlie McAvoy, Brandon Carlo, and Andrew Peeke ahead of him on the depth chart.
“I’m just focused on playing hard, moving the puck, and staying out of trouble,” Sweezey said. “If I can do that, the sky’s the limit.”
The Bruins hope Sweezey’s local ties, AHL experience, and hunger for success will provide much-needed depth and energy to their defensive corps as they prepare for the upcoming NHL season.
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