The Ottawa Senators have made a significant roster decision, moving goaltender Linus Ullmark to a non-roster position to accommodate the return of forward Lars Eller. The team announced this change on Thursday, marking a strategic adjustment as they aim to bolster their lineup.
Ullmark has been on a leave of absence since December 28 for personal reasons. Despite being moved off the active roster, his full salary of $8.25 million will still impact the team’s salary cap. This decision comes as the Senators look to optimize their roster amid ongoing challenges.
Lars Eller, having missed action since December 11 due to a lower-body injury, is set to make his return. The 36-year-old forward has accumulated two goals and six points in 28 games this season and has an impressive NHL career totaling 190 goals and 430 points over 1,144 games. He has played for several teams, including the Senators, Washington Capitals, and St. Louis Blues.
Ullmark’s last performance came in a 7-5 defeat to the Toronto Maple Leafs on December 27, where he struggled, allowing four goals on just 14 shots before being pulled from the game. This season has seen him participate in 28 games for Ottawa, and he currently has a 2.95 goals-against average and an .881 save percentage.
With Ullmark facing challenges and Eller making his comeback, the Senators are hoping these changes will energize their competitive drive as the season progresses. The team will be closely monitoring the situation as they aim for a stronger performance moving forward.