Ottawa Senators Activate Linus Ullmark, Reassign Leevi Merilainen

Linus Ullmark is set to return as the starting goalie for the Ottawa Senators after being activated from long-term injured reserve, following a back injury that sidelined him for 18 games. The Senators have performed well in his absence, boasting a 7-0-2 record, including a recent 6-0 victory over the Minnesota Wild. Ullmark, who had an impressive record of 8-0-1 before his injury, will replace Leevi Merilainen, who has excelled as a backup with an 8-3-1 record and .925 save percentage. Merilainen is being sent back to the AHL's Belleville Senators, where he also had a strong start to the season. The Senators are currently third in the Atlantic Division and are looking to maintain their momentum as they head into a game against the Nashville Predators. Ullmark’s return is expected to strengthen the team's playoff push.