The Ottawa Senators have launched a fierce defence of their goaltender Linus Ullmark, forcefully condemning online trolls for spreading what they call completely false rumours. The speculation emerged following Ullmark's extended leave of absence from the team for undisclosed personal reasons.
Senators' Leadership Issues Blistering Statement
On January 8, Senators General Manager and President of Hockey Operations Steve Staios released a strongly-worded statement addressing the malicious gossip circulating on social media. Staios expressed the organisation's profound disappointment with the "completely fabricated and false stories" targeting the hockey club.
He confirmed that Linus Ullmark is away from the team for personal matters and has the full support of the entire Senators organisation. Staios revealed the team had asked for privacy regarding the situation, a request he said was ignored by "the lowest forms of trolls and sick people who scour the internet."
Baseless Rumours of a Locker Room Scandal
The unfounded speculation falsely claimed Ullmark was at the centre of a cheating scandal involving other players within the Senators' locker room. The team has categorically denied any such incident, labelling the narratives as baseless and fabricated.
"We are disgusted that outside forces are attempting to disrupt our hockey club," Staios stated, hoping his public comments would put an end to the "ridiculous speculation" spreading online.
Ullmark's Status and Season Performance
The Swedish netminder was last in action for Ottawa on December 27 in a game against the Toronto Maple Leafs, where he conceded four goals. To accommodate roster moves, including the return of veteran centre Lars Eller, the Senators officially moved Ullmark to a non-roster status on Thursday.
Ullmark, who was acquired from the Boston Bruins in June 2024 and signed a four-year, $33 million contract extension in October, has posted a 14-8-5 record this season. His current statistics include a 2.95 goals against average and an .881 save percentage in his second campaign with Ottawa.
The team's firm stance highlights the severe impact of online harassment on athletes and organisations, reaffirming their commitment to supporting a player during a challenging private period.
