Bruins
Swayman and Ullmark continue to be bonded even on separate teams.
Jeremy Swayman and Linus Ullmark created an unbreakable bond while anchoring one of the best goaltending tandems in the NHL.
Their time as teammates came to an end this offseason when Ullmark was dealt to the Ottawa Senators in a trade. Swayman was then signed to a monster contract extension to make him the No. 1 option in net for the Bruins.
Still, the bond Swayman and Ullmark forged in Boston has continued through their time on separate teams. Ullmark returned to Boston as a foe for the first time earlier this season and recreated his iconic goalie hug with Swayman prior to puck drop.
On Saturday, it was Swayman’s turn to venture to Ottawa for the first time. And Ullmark’s family made sure to give Swayman a warm welcome, holding up signs against the glass that said “Uncle Sway” and “We Miss You.”
Ullmark was unable to dress for Saturday’s game due to injury, but he was still in the building supporting both his new team and an old friend.
Swayman showed his appreciation for the gesture by tossing a puck over the glass and giving Ullmark’s son a hug before the game.
The Bruins ultimately lost in a shootout, 6-5, to the Senators on Saturday, and Swayman made 40 saves in the losing effort.
Swayman and Ullmark will cross paths twice more this regular season; next on Jan. 23 and a final time on March 12. There’s no timeline for Ullmark’s return to the ice, though Ottawa GM Steve Staios noted last week it could be “sooner than later.” So, if Ullmark isn’t ready to take the net on Thursday, it’s very likely he’ll be available when the teams meet later this year.
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