The Ottawa Senators have launched a fierce public defence of star goaltender Linus Ullmark, condemning what they call "disgusting" and fabricated speculation circulating on social media.
Club Issues Blistering Statement
In a rare and strongly-worded move, President of Hockey Operations and General Manager Steve Staios released a formal statement on Thursday aimed at silencing the unfounded noise. The organisation expressed extreme disappointment at the "completely fabricated and false stories" spreading online about the club.
"Linus is away from our team for personal reasons and he has the entire organization's support," the statement read. "We asked that people respect his privacy, but clearly that request was not heard by the lowest forms of trolls and sick people who scour the internet."
The statement concluded with a firm rebuke: "We are disgusted that outside forces are attempting to disrupt our hockey club. This statement will put an end to the ridiculous speculation that has spread online."
Ullmark's Absence and Team Impact
The Swedish goaltender has been absent from the team for personal reasons since December 28. His last appearance was on December 27 against the Toronto Maple Leafs. To accommodate the return of injured centre Lars Eller, the team officially moved Ullmark to a non-roster spot on Thursday.
Ullmark, 32, is in the first season of a lucrative four-year contract extension worth $33 million, which carries an annual salary cap hit of $8.25 million. His absence has been keenly felt on the ice; the Senators currently rank last in the league with a combined team save percentage of .872.
Olympic Omission and Uncertain Return
Adding to the narrative, it was revealed on Friday that Ullmark was left off Sweden's preliminary roster for the 2026 Winter Olympics. The club has provided no timeline for the goaltender's return, reiterating that the matter remains private.
The Senators' decision to publicly confront online abuse highlights the growing challenge sports organisations face in protecting their players from harmful speculation, especially during sensitive personal absences.
