Linus Ullmark is back in the Ottawa Senators’ crease, suiting up as the backup goaltender for Sunday’s matchup against the Vegas Golden Knights at the Canadian Tire Centre. [1][2] The 32-year-old Swedish netminder had been absent since December 27, missing 14 games due to a personal leave of absence. Mads Søgaard drew the start in net for Ottawa, with veteran James Reimer scratched from the lineup.[1]
This marks a significant step for Ullmark, who recently opened up about the mental health struggles that prompted his time away. His return brings stability to a Senators goaltending situation that has seen multiple changes during his absence.
Ullmark’s season before the leave
Ullmark entered the 2025-26 campaign as Ottawa’s top goaltender following his Vezina Trophy-winning stint with Buffalo. He appeared in 28 games, posting a 14-8-5 record with a 2.95 goals-against average.[1][3] His save percentage sat at .881, reflecting some early-season challenges but also flashes of brilliance.
In his final outing before the leave, a December 27 loss to the Toronto Maple Leafs, Ullmark was pulled after allowing four goals on 14 shots, yielding an 8.74 GAA.[3] Prior to that rough night, he had strung together solid performances, including a 4-0 shutout win over Pittsburgh on December 18 and a 6-2 victory against Boston three days later.
For deeper analysis on how Ullmark was silencing critics with key saves earlier in the season, check our previous coverage. His underlying metrics showed promise amid Ottawa’s push for a playoff spot.
The Senators leaned on backups like Reimer and others during the stretch, but the team went 5-7-2 without their primary starter. Ullmark’s pre-leave form suggested he could reclaim the No. 1 role upon return.
The mental health challenges behind the leave
Ullmark’s absence stemmed from a mental health crisis, including panic attacks and anxiety that peaked during the Maple Leafs game. “I felt like I lost myself. I didn’t know who I was at the time,” he shared in a recent interview.[4] He described spiraling thoughts between periods, second-guessing his entire career.
The issues had been building since his trade to Ottawa before the 2024-25 season. “I was having panic attacks, seriously having anxiety problems and panic,” Ullmark admitted, noting he immediately sought help from a program.[4]
Online rumors exacerbated the situation, with unsubstantiated claims labeling him a “home-wrecker” and suggesting team discord. “It took them less than 24 hours… saying that I’m a home-wrecker,” he said, emphasizing the toll on his family.[4]
When the Senators announced his personal leave, the team rallied around him, denying the rumors publicly on January 8.
Team and league-wide support
Ullmark praised the Senators organization for their immediate warmth and support upon his return. Teammates sent encouraging texts, and the rink became a “positive place” again. Fans in Ottawa also showed overwhelming positivity.
Across the league, Tampa Bay Lightning defenseman Victor Hedman reached out, connecting Ullmark to resources in Florida. “You’ve got this,” a doctor told him, reinforcing his path forward.
The Senators adjusted their roster dynamically, recalling Søgaard and using Reimer in recent starts. This depth allowed Ullmark time to focus on recovery without pressure.
His journey highlights growing mental health awareness in hockey, following similar stories from players like Robin Lehner and others.
Looking ahead: Ullmark’s role and Senators’ goaltending tandem
Expectations are high for Ullmark to start Wednesday against the Colorado Avalanche, assuming a smooth backup appearance versus Vegas.[2] Coach Travis Green has expressed confidence in easing him back.
Ottawa’s goaltending duo of Ullmark and Søgaard could solidify the crease. Søgaard’s recent call-up from Belleville adds youth and reliability.
Key stats for Ullmark this season:
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Games played | 28[3] |
| Record | 14-8-5[1] |
| GAA | 2.95[1] |
| Save % | .881[3] |
| Shutouts | 1 |
For full stats, visit his ESPN player page.
Ullmark’s resilience could boost Ottawa’s playoff push in the Atlantic Division.
Ullmark’s return is more than a roster move—it’s a testament to prioritizing well-being in professional sports. With his experience and the team’s backing, he has the tools to regain form and lead the Senators’ net. Watch how this unfolds in the coming games, potentially stabilizing Ottawa’s season at a crucial juncture. Details from the Ottawa Citizen on his first skate back underscore the positive vibes.
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Par Mike Jonderson
Mike Jonderson is a passionate hockey analyst and expert in advanced NHL statistics. A former college player and mathematics graduate, he combines his understanding of the game with technical expertise to develop innovative predictive models and contribute to the evolution of modern hockey analytics.