Linus Ullmark has just inked a contract with the Ottawa Senators and is set to earn a whopping $8.25 million in average annual value. This signals that general manager Steve Staios has identified that he has his man for the job. This signing is an absolute game-changer for player and club, as they now boast a stellar goaltender in their ranks for the next five years. As a note, Ullmark did have one year remaining on his current contract. Ullmark came close to being traded before the deadline, but the Boston Bruins goalie vetoed the trade. However, the Sens did acquire Ullmark after swapping Joonas Korpisalo for him in a big trade over the summer.
4 x $8.25M for Ullmark https://t.co/eYcQTWu4sS
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) October 9, 2024
Ullmark Lands New Contract
Entering the 2023-24 season, Ullmark faced a daunting task of surpassing his outstanding performance in 2022-23 with the Boston Bruins. It was practically impossible to replicate such a remarkable year. Ullmark’s exceptional play earned him the Vezina Trophy with a record of 40-6-1, a 1.89 GAA, and a .938 SV%. When general manager Don Sweeney signed him to a lucrative four-year, $20 million deal with an AAV of $5 million in 2021, no one could have predicted the level of excellence he would achieve, forming a formidable goaltending duo with Jeremy Swayman. This season was truly unique, so let’s reflect on it and assess his performance.
Linus Ullmark’s 2023-24 Season
Throughout the season, Swayman and Ullmark formed a dynamic goaltending duo, sharing the workload and showcasing their skills. Ullmark’s performance during the regular season was impressive, with a record of 22-10-7, a 2.57 GAA, and a .915 SV%, including a couple of shutouts. It’s worth noting that he only suffered consecutive regulation losses once, which happened in March against the Philadelphia Flyers and Tampa Bay Lightning.
When the playoffs arrived, Swayman took centre stage with his outstanding performances. However, Ullmark did have a chance to prove himself in the first round against the Toronto Maple Leafs. Coach Jim Montgomery stuck to the rotation and gave Ullmark the opportunity to start Game 2 after Swayman’s victory in Game 1. Despite the loss, Ullmark made an impressive 31 saves, showing his resilience and determination. Unfortunately, the Bruins faced a tough defeat in Game 2 against the Florida Panthers, with Ullmark allowing two goals on 10 shots.
It’s crucial to acknowledge the talent and effort both goaltenders brought to the team throughout the season. However, the Senators are well aware of the calibre goalie that can help propel them further.
Ullmark Contract is Huge
The Ullmark contract makes a ton of sense. Over the next year and in the seasons to come, Linus Ullmark will undoubtedly continue to be a valuable team player for the Senators. As fans, we wholeheartedly wish him the very best of luck in his future endeavours and eagerly anticipate witnessing the exciting journey that lies ahead for him. The Senators and their fanbase are cautiously optimistic that this deal is a step in going back to the promise land of the NHL playoffs.
Main Photo: Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports
