OTTAWA -- The Ottawa Senators are grappling with uncertainty as their star goalie Linus Ullmark is sidelined by a back injury, leaving the team with questions about its upcoming games and possible trades.
Coach Travis Green announced on Sunday, after practice, Ullmark is expected to be out on a week-to-week basis, as he hasn't skated since his departure during the first period of the Senators' 3-1 loss to the Edmonton Oilers on December 22. The 31-year-old netminder previously boasted impressive statistics before his injury, holding an 8-0-1 record with a 1.43 goals-against average and .954 save percentage over his last nine starts.
“He has not been on the ice yet,” said Green. “There’s concern on everyone [who’s injured], but it is what it is. He’s rehabbing and showing improvements, so that's a good sign.”
Ullmark had signed a four-year, $33 million contract with Ottawa on October 9 after being acquired from the Boston Bruins, where he won the Vezina Trophy as the NHL’s top goalie for the 2022-23 season. His absence has left the Senators (19-17-2) struggling, with only one win since the holiday break.
With Ullmark out, the Senators have relied on goalies Leevi Merilainen, Anton Forsberg, and Mads Sogaard, who together have recorded a disappointing .873 save percentage. “We’re mentally ready to win 2-1,” Green remarked about the team’s need for improved scoring following Ullmark's absence. The Senators have only scored seven goals in their last four games, highlighting their struggles as much as their inability to cover Ullmark's absence.
Despite being just one point out of the Eastern Conference wild card spot, the Senators' playoff position is precarious, with only one win since Ullmark's injury. The team’s hopes of entering the playoffs have been dimmed, prompting discussions among analysts about potential trades for new goaltending options.
Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman noted the difficulties in finding reliable goalies on the trade market, especially with the season already seeing several goalie trades. “How many goalies are even available now?” Friedman mused. He emphasized several factors limiting the Senators’ options, including the wealth of teams still vying for playoff positions and the increasing expectation for teams to carry three reliable netminders.
Currently, Anton Forsberg has assumed the role of starter during Ullmark's absence. Forsberg had struggled, posting only 21 saves during their recent 4-0 loss to the St. Louis Blues. Merilainen, 22, recorded Ottawa's only win since Ullmark's injury, contributing to the Senators' victory against the Minnesota Wild. Yet, the team is far from stable, and questions linger about whether they should pursue trades or bolster their current lineup.
Friedman speculated about potential targets, including Anaheim Ducks goalie John Gibson. He suggested the Senators might face challenges not only with Gibson's health but also his expensive contract. “Is it worth taking on someone who's struggled to stay healthy?” Friedman asked, raising concerns about the fit of potential trade targets.
The hockey world continues to analyze the Senators' situation as they weight their options moving forward. With the trade deadline approaching and playoff aspirations on hold, the question remains: How will the Senators navigate the goalie market amid their current circumstances?