The Ottawa Senators made headlines throughout the offseason by buying goaltender Linus Ullmark from the Boston Bruins. The transfer introduced in a seasoned veteran who had lately gained the Vezina Trophy in 2022-23. In a decreased workload final season with Boston, Ullmark was nonetheless good. He posted a 22-10-7 file, a 2.58 GAA, and a .915 save share.
Regardless of being a part of a profitable tandem in Boston, his restricted begins and the Bruins’ cap administration made him out there for commerce. This week, the Senators signed Ullmark to a four-year, $33 million extension, signaling their long-term dedication to creating him their franchise goaltender. Early into the 2024-25 season, Ullmark has already confirmed his value, offering Ottawa with stability and elite goaltending as they construct on final yr’s progress.
Ullmark’s Debut Towards the Panthers Was Stellar
Ullmark’s first take a look at as a Senator got here of their season opener in opposition to the reigning Stanley Cup champions, the Florida Panthers. Going through the champs proper out of the gate, Ullmark was terrific. He stopped 30 of 31 photographs in a stellar 3-1 victory. The one purpose that beat him was a well-placed blast from Gustav Forsling that snuck by means of visitors. In any other case, Ullmark was practically impenetrable.
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This debut efficiency highlighted two key strengths that Ullmark brings to the Senators. First, his calm and composed demeanor between the pipes has a steadying impact on his protection. Regardless of a extremely expert Panthers offense, Ullmark made key saves look routine, particularly in high-pressure moments. Second, his positioning and lateral motion had been impeccable. These are hallmarks of his recreation, refined over his years within the NHL.
Ullmark’s Future Is Shiny in Ottawa
Ullmark was excited to affix Ottawa due to his elevated workload in comparison with his time in Boston. Final season, he appeared in 40 video games for the Bruins, splitting duties with Swayman. In Ottawa, he’s anticipated to play in 55-60 video games, a heavier schedule that Ullmark appears absolutely ready for.
This added duty might enable him to construct much more rhythm and consistency. Ullmark will likely be relied upon because the workhorse within the internet for a younger, quick, and bettering Senators group.
Although early within the season, the indicators level to Ullmark being important to Ottawa’s bid to return to the playoffs. His means to make massive saves in essential moments will enable the Senators’ youthful roster to play extra freely. His teammates know they’ve an elite goaltender backing them up. For a group that struggled with consistency in internet over the previous few seasons, Ullmark’s arrival might be the lacking piece wanted to solidify their protection.
Even With a Youthful Protection, Ullmark Can Shine
Ottawa’s protection just isn’t the safe wall Ullmark had in Boston, however this may enable him to showcase his abilities extra prominently. His efficiency in opposition to the Panthers demonstrated that even with out a defense-first system in entrance of him, Ullmark can steal video games for his group. Because the Senators’ younger protection core continues to develop, having a goalie like Ullmark to bail them out when errors occur will likely be invaluable.
Ullmark’s tenure with the Senators has gotten off to an excellent begin. Might his spectacular win in opposition to the Panthers set the tone for what might be a career-defining yr for him as an undisputed number-one goalie? The Senators have invested considerably in Ullmark, however early returns counsel he might be one of many crucial strikes that propel them again into rivalry.
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