A familiar and welcome sight graced the ice at the Bell Sensplex on Friday as goaltender Linus Ullmark returned to practice with the Ottawa Senators. This marked his first skate with teammates in 19 days, following a leave of absence for personal reasons.
A Positive Step Forward for the Top Goalie
While his return to game action is not immediate, Ullmark's presence is a significant positive development for the club. Head coach Travis Green expressed his satisfaction, stating he was "happy he’s back skating with the group" and that the goalie "looks good." Green emphasized the team is taking a cautious, day-by-day approach with no specific timeline for Ullmark's return to the lineup.
The veteran netminder is not expected to play in the weekend's games against the Montreal Canadiens on Saturday or the Detroit Red Wings on Sunday. However, the plan is for him to accompany the team on their upcoming three-game road trip, which includes stops in Detroit, Columbus, and Nashville.
Goaltending Situation in Flux
Ullmark's absence has been filled by Leevi Merilainen, who is slated to make his 10th consecutive start against Montreal. With Ullmark's return on the horizon and the recent signing of veteran James Reimer—who is expected to debut Sunday—the Senators face decisions in the crease.
Once Ullmark is deemed ready to play, which could be as early as next Thursday in Nashville, President of Hockey Operations and General Manager Steve Staios will need to determine the goalie configuration. The team could opt to carry three goaltenders temporarily or assign the waiver-exempt Merilainen to the AHL's Belleville Senators.
Teammates Welcome His Return
Ullmark's teammates were encouraged to see him back. Alternate captain Thomas Chabot called it "a big step in the right direction" and noted that being back with the group is a positive feeling for any player returning from time away.
Ullmark has not played since being pulled from a game against the Toronto Maple Leafs on December 27. His path back to game readiness continues, with Friday's practice representing a crucial milestone in that process for the Senators' number-one goalie.
