Senators Face Goalie Shuffle as Ullmark Sidelined with Back Injury

The Ottawa Senators are dealing with a sudden goaltending crisis after losing star netminder Linus Ullmark to a prolonged back injury. Ullmark, who has been key to the Senators’ recent resurgence, left last Saturday’s game against the Edmonton Oilers after experiencing back tightness in the first period. It was expected to be short-term. Unfortunately, head coach Travis Green confirmed that Ullmark would miss the team’s upcoming five-game road trip, delaying his return until at least January 9 against the Buffalo Sabres.

In corresponding moves, the Senators announced on Friday morning that both Leevi Merilainen and Mads Søgaard have been recalled from their AHL affiliate in Belleville.

Merilainen was already with the club before the holiday break, stepping in after Anton Forsberg suffered an injury during warmups two weeks ago. He secured his first NHL win in Saturday’s victory over Vancouver and played again the following night in Edmonton.

Can the Senators Manage Without Ullmark?

Ullmark’s absence means the Senators will likely place him on injured reserve to make room for the two recalls. This is not good news for the Senators, who might not be the same team without their star netminder.