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Well it looks like the Boston Bruins are adding some goaltending!
It’s reported by multiple sources that Linus Ullmark will sign with the B’s:
Ullmark going to the Bruins.
— Darren Dreger (@DarrenDreger) July 28, 2021
Linus Ullmark #NHLBruins : 4 years x $5 million@DFOHockey @Sportsnet
— Frank Seravalli (@frank_seravalli) July 28, 2021
With Jaroslav Halak not returning and Tuukka Rask’s impending recovery from surgery (and questionable return after that), you knew the Bruins were looking to add some depth between the pipes.
Given the term and AAV, you have to think this lends weight to the idea that Rask may not be back with the team.
Ullmark has spent the last sixth seasons with the Buffalo Sabres. For the 2020-21 season, he was 9-6-3 with a 2.63 GAA and .917 save percentage.
It's worth noting that those aren't bad numbers for a terrible Buffalo team.
Consider:
Linus Ullmark was 9-6-3 with a .917 save percentage. The Sabres’ other five goalies went 6-28-4 with an .896.
— John Vogl (@BuffaloVogl) July 28, 2021
It remains to be seen how Bruce Cassidy will split time in the crease between Ullmark, Jeremy Swayman, and Dan Vladar, but adding a veteran like Ullmark at least gives you a buffer if one of those guys falters.
It seems likely that Swayman will be given a shot to earn the starting role, but who knows?
If nothing else, at least this signing wasn't a depth forward.
Something different!
Some added context from Bob McKenzie:
Ullmark is, however, BOS’s new No. 1 right now. Jeremy Swayman, as I understand it, doesn’t require waivers to be sent to AHL. Dan Vladar would require waivers. So it will be Ullmark and one of the younger goalies to start the season. When/if Rask can come back, we’ll see.
— Bob McKenzie (@TSNBobMcKenzie) July 28, 2021