The Bruins have treasured the post-victory embrace between Linus Ullmark and Jeremy Swayman on the ice for the past three seasons. However, with Ullmark’s departure from Boston, this cherished ritual is not expected to continue in Ottawa.
Linus Ullmark has made it clear that he won’t be bringing the hug tradition to Ottawa, as that special gesture belongs to him and Swayman.
During his inaugural media appearance with the Senators on Wednesday, Linus Ullmark was questioned about his intentions regarding a potential continuation of his customary practice with his new goaltending companion, Anton Forsberg.
“I’m not going to bring it to Ottawa,” Ullmark said. “The goalie hug that we had in Boston, that’s for me and Sway only and that’s out of respect for what we had and what we built through our years together and the respect and love and admiration that I have for him.
“I’m not gonna say we’re gonna come up with something new or anything like that. There’s always been the celebrations after winning games. So, we’ll see what happens. Who knows? Maybe there’ll be a dab or something. But I’m not gonna try too hard to come up with a new thing or something like that. I’m just gonna have to let it play out naturally.”
Ullmark’s journey in the NHL with Boston saw him transform into one of the most exceptional goalies in the league. His remarkable skills earned him the prestigious Vezina Trophy for the 2022-23 season. Also, it solidified his status as the top netminder. However, it’s Swayman’s net. This led to Ullmark’s contract negotiations loomed. Its evident that his time with the team was ending.
Ullmarks Arrival in Ottawa
On Monday, Boston made the decision to trade Ullmark to the Senators. In exchange, the Bruins acquired the 25th pick in the 2024 NHL Draft. Also, it came with the talented forward Mark Kastelic and goaltender Joonas Korpisalo.
Ullmark’s arrival as the Senators’ goaltender is going to provide a boost. However, the question remains whether he intends to stay in Ottawa for the long term.
As Ullmark is set to become a free agent next summer, his decision not to agree to a contract extension with Ottawa during Monday’s trade may have affected the overall return that Boston received from the Senators. At the moment, Ullmark seems to have other priorities on his mind and is focusing on them before revisiting contract negotiations with the Senators.
Gook Luck Ullmark!
The Boston faithful are truly rooting for Ullmark’s success, and although they feel a tinge of sadness bidding farewell to the legend, they are happy that the hug will remain in Boston instead of finding a new home with another team.
Main Photo: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports
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