OTTAWA – Linus Ullmark’s first begin since stepping away for a private go away of absence was by no means going to be simply one other recreation.
From the opening puck drop to the ultimate horn, the veteran goaltender battled extra than simply the opposition, channelling a gamut of feelings into a formidable 26-save efficiency in a 4-1 win over the New Jersey Devils Saturday night time that underscored each his resilience and his significance within the crease.
The Ottawa Senators netminder made his first begin since taking a go away on Dec. 28. In a current interview, Ullmark shared that he was coping with psychological well being points and had skilled anxiousness throughout his final look towards the Toronto Maple Leafs on Dec. 27.
“It felt like I’ve been gone for thus lengthy that there was an pleasure,” admitted Ullmark. “I used to be nervous, which I haven’t been in a very long time, and that’s optimistic.”
The Senators introduced Saturday morning that Ullmark would begin, and followers marked the event with indicators welcoming him again. A sellout crowd at Canadian Tire Centre cheered as he took the ice, and his teammates lined as much as congratulate him after the sport.
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“On the finish there, additionally throughout the lineup, it was actually exhausting holding it collectively,” Ullmark mentioned. “And I didn’t need to maintain it collectively, additionally. It’s one of many issues that I’ve been engaged on is simply letting the sentiments circulate somewhat bit. There’s nothing unhealthy about that, in a approach.”
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Ullmark even acquired a welcome again from referee Justin Kee, who took a second early within the recreation to supply his assist for the goaltender. The 2 had performed collectively within the American Hockey League in Rochester.
Ullmark credited his teammates for what he known as a gritty effort. He additionally acknowledged they’ve been instrumental throughout this time away.
“The most important factor has been the assist on this locker room,” mentioned Ullmark. “It has been large ever since day one and I can’t thank sufficient this entire group. I can’t thank them sufficient.”
Gamers admitted it was a particular night time stuffed with emotion.
“He confirmed immediately, proper from that first shift, first shot that he was going to be rock stable and that’s why he’s among the best goalies within the league. That was fairly wonderful to see,” mentioned captain Brady Tkachuk. “To see the assist for him and see how a lot that we missed him on the market, it was nice. It was an excellent expertise.”
Head coach Travis Inexperienced was not solely happy with Ullmark but in addition impressed together with his efficiency. The 32-year-old is 15-8-5 this season.
“I assumed he was wonderful,” mentioned Inexperienced. “Very centered, aggressive. I assumed it was, if not the very best recreation, among the best video games he’s performed this yr.”
Inexperienced admitted it’s tough watching a participant undergo private struggles. His focus was making certain Ullmark solely got here again when he was prepared.
Ullmark’s return was gradual. He began practising with the staff, joined them on a highway journey, and served as backup for the previous two video games earlier than deciding he was able to get again to motion.
“Like, there’s by no means actually an ideal recreation to come back again,” admitted Ullmark. “It could possibly be, however it’s virtually like somewhat little bit of a ripping the Band-Assist off. You’re going to should attempt it out and see the way it goes.
“And I felt like I used to be in a ok place the place I felt assured in my recreation. I felt assured in my bodily skills to go on the market and carry out (Saturday).”
This report by The Canadian Press was first revealed Feb. 1, 2026.
© 2026 The Canadian Press
