Ullmark's night ends early in Boston due to undisclosed issue
Linus Ullmark did not return for the third period of Ottawa's 4-1 win at Boston on Monday because of an undisclosed injury. The injury appeared to happen late in the second when Bruins forward JJ Peterka was tripped by Thomas Chabot and collided with Ullmark. If Ullmark misses significant time, backup Samuel Ersson would likely handle a larger workload.
Ullmark, 33, began Ottawa’s season by making 27 saves in a 3-2 win over Toronto. In Boston, he stopped all 10 shots he faced before leaving. Ersson’s season debut Monday included one goal against on nine shots.
In 49 starts last season, Ullmark recorded a 28-12-8 record, a 2.73 goals-against average, and an .891 save percentage, and he has been part of Ottawa’s two recent playoff appearances. Boston traded him to the Senators in June 2024; he previously won the 2023 Vezina Trophy with the Bruins.
If Ullmark misses time, Ottawa’s playoff hopes could hinge more on Ersson, affecting teammates, coaches, and fans who follow the club. A goaltender’s absence may also shift media attention and fan expectations, while highlighting the physical risks athletes face. The broader hockey community could be reminded how quickly collisions near the crease alter a season’s trajectory.