When the Ottawa Senators made a trade with the Boston Bruins to acquire 2023 Vezina Trophy winner Linus Ullmark in June 2024, it sent a message to the entire NHL that the Senators are committed to winning. Ullmark having an expiring contract didn't bother the Senators at all.
Just one day before opening night, the Senators signed Ullmark to a four-year extension. Ullmark being committed to Ottawa until 2029 brought even more excitement to the Senators fan base.
To no surprise, Ullmark got the start in goal between the pipes on opening night and needed to live up to the hype. Ullmark did just that by allowing just one goal in the Senators' 3-1 win over the Florida Panthers, but his comments after the game showed that Ottawa and Ullmark are perfect for each other.
Ullmark's comments after Senators' opening night win shows Ottawa is perfect for Ullmark
While being interviewed by TSN's Claire Hanna after the game, Ullmark couldn't resist about talking about the opening night crowd inside Canadian Tire Centre cheering for him. The Senator fans couldn't resist showing their love for their new goaltender.
Linus Ullmark. New era. #GoSensGo pic.twitter.com/dqTjUJXdqq
— Everyday Sens (@EverydaySens) October 11, 2024
"Just to hear the crowd like this, I got goosebumps," Ullmark said. "Thanks guys."
2024's opening night may have marked a turning point for the Senators franchise. The Senators have missed out on the playoffs since 2017, and goaltending has been a major concern. Ullmark's performance last night was worth the hype he received when in Boston.
Ullmark shut down the Panthers by allowing one goal and finished with 30 saves in the game. Sixteen of his 30 saves came in the third period alone. Entering this season, Ullmark was going to be the biggest factor to see how good the Senators can be. After one game, the trade has already paid off, and Ottawa can be a team that makes the playoffs and Ullmark would be a big factor to help the Senators make the playoffs.
Opening night was also special as the Senators fans packed the Canadian Tire Centre and were loud all game to cheer on the Senators. According to @PuckReportNHL on X, the Senators had an attendance of 19,346, which was good for 104.4%, and Ullmark spoke highly of playing in Ottawa.
"What better way then to play hockey than in Canada's national capital," Ullmark said.
Ullmark is a special goaltender and clearly loves playing in Ottawa already. With loud cheers for him and the city being excited again for hockey, last night may be the beginning of something special for not only Ottawa, but for Ullmark too.