The Ottawa Senators have not experienced playoff hockey since their thrilling journey to the 2017 NHL Eastern Conference Finals. A significant factor in the franchise’s recent struggles has been a lack of reliable goaltending. However, the Senators are optimistic about a turnaround after acquiring Linus Ullmark from the Boston Bruins in June.
As the 2024-25 NHL preseason is underway, Senators fans have yet to see Ullmark play, as the 2023 Vezina Trophy winner reportedly suffered a minor injury this summer, according to TSN’s Claire Hanna, which has prevented him from participating in practices and exhibition games. Thankfully, Ottawa’s new goaltender conveyed a positive message to the fanbase on Wednesday.
“(Ullmark) is 100 percent and hopes to play tomorrow,” Senators insider Bruce Garrioch reported after the club’s latest practice, confirming that the netminder “tweaked something” since being acquired.
Linus Ullmark said he is 100 percent and hopes to play tomorrow. Says the schedule isn't up to him. Said he just tweaked something #Sens
— Bruce Garrioch (@SunGarrioch) September 25, 2024
Given that goaltending has been a vulnerability for Ottawa in recent years, Wednesday’s update is promising for the Senators. Ullmark’s performance will be vital for any potential success this season. He reassured anxious Senators fans that he was never concerned about the injury, stating to Sportsnet’s Alex Adams that the situation was “all under control.”
If everything goes as planned, Ullmark could make his debut when the Senators host the Buffalo Sabres on Thursday. Ottawa started the preseason strong with back-to-back wins against the Toronto Maple Leafs, and Ullmark’s arrival could help maintain that momentum.
Throughout his nine-year NHL career, Ullmark has been a reliable goaltender, but he elevated his game after joining the Bruins in 2021. Over the last three seasons, he has a record of 88-26-10, a .924 save percentage, a 2.28 goals-against average, and five shutouts in 130 appearances.
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