Ullmark's Strong Start Backstops Senators' Hot Opening
Linus Ullmark stopped 29 shots in Ottawa's 4-1 victory over New Jersey, lifting his early-season save percentage to .948 and goals-against average to 1.27 over five starts. The Senators moved to 5-1-0, with Shane Pinto scoring nine seconds into the second period and a Devils goal later disallowed for goaltender interference. Ullmark's numbers represent a major rise from last season, when he posted an .891 save percentage and 2.73 goals-against average.
Ullmark turned aside 29 shots at Prudential Center as Ottawa beat New Jersey 4-1. Through five appearances, his save rate sits at .948 and his goals-against average at 1.27. A season ago, he went 28-12-8 over 49 games with an .891 save rate and 2.73 GAA, the first sub-.900 campaign of his career.
Pinto's goal came nine seconds into the middle frame. New Jersey pushed with a 14-3 third-period shot edge, but a Jesper Boqvist tally was erased after Ottawa successfully challenged for goalie interference. Arseny Gritsyuk scored at 14:59, and Tyler Kleven added an empty-net goal. Ottawa, missing Jake Sanderson, Artem Zub and William Eklund, improved to 5-1-0.
Ullmark's resurgence could energize Senators fans and boost local game-day spending around home games. Teammates may gain confidence knowing strong goaltending can cover injuries and defensive lapses. For aspiring goalies, his rebound from a down year may reinforce patience and mental resilience. Media and fantasy-hockey audiences may also pay closer attention to Ottawa, though early-season numbers can regress.