The Boston Bruins have made a significant change to their goaltending tandem, trading Vezina Trophy winner Linus Ullmark to the Ottawa Senators. This move was expected as Jeremy Swayman had solidified himself as the number one goalie in Boston. As a restricted free agent with arbitration rights, Swayman is in line for a substantial raise.
Ullmark and Swayman were known for their friendly and supportive relationship, often embracing each other after victories. During the 2022-23 season, the Bruins had a record-breaking 65 wins, with Ullmark winning the Vezina Trophy as the league’s top goaltender.
The Senators sent goaltender Joonas Korpisalo, forward Mark Kastelic, and the 25th overall pick in the 2024 draft to the Bruins. Ottawa will also retain 25% of Korpisalo’s salary. Korpisalo struggled with a 3.27 goals-against average and .890 save percentage, while Ullmark has better stats of 2.57 GAA and .917 save percentage.
This trade is just one of several major goaltending moves in the NHL this month. The New Jersey Devils acquired Jacob Markstrom from the Calgary Flames, while the Los Angeles Kings acquired Darcy Kuemper from the Washington Capitals. The NHL has been seeing an influx of big trades lately as teams look to strengthen their rosters ahead of playoff season