Grading Linus Ullmark's 2025-26 Ottawa Senators' Season

Linus Ullmark has had one of those seasons that makes you shake your head while also nodding in respect. The veteran netminder is the Ottawa Senators’ starting goalie, and he’s had moments that remind you why the Senators leaned on him. That said, he’s also had stretches that make you worry about consistency. Let’s break down his season so far.

The Good for Ullmark: Standing Tall When It Counts

Ullmark has shown flashes of brilliance, especially in tight spots. Take the recent shootout win over the Calgary Flames: he stopped 27 shots through regulation and overtime, then turned aside both shootout attempts. Wins over Philadelphia, New York, and Montreal in recent weeks highlight that Ullmark can still steal a game when he’s sharp. In those games, he read the play well, tracked shooters, and seemed to command his crease with a calm confidence. When he’s on, he’s the steady hand that can lift the Senators through a tight game.

The Bad for Ullmark: Struggles and Inconsistency

Then there are the games that leave Senators’ fans grimacing. Ullmark has given up five or six goals at least once already this season. Games against the Chicago Blackhawks and the Florida Panthers are prime examples. His save percentage has dipped below .900 in several recent games. And over ten starts, he sits at a 3.37 GAA and .863 mark. It’s hard to pin it all on him. Ottawa’s defense hasn’t been exactly a brick wall. But on some nights, Ullmark doesn’t look comfortable, leaving fans and fantasy owners alike wondering which version will show up.

The Middle Ground for Ullmark: Grinding Through the Workload

Despite the ups and downs, Ullmark has handled the bulk of Ottawa’s starts without losing his position. He’s 5-4-1 in ten games, showing he can bounce back from rough outings and keep the team in the hunt. His early struggles against the league’s tougher offenses—like Florida and the Edmonton Oilers are offset by wins over lower-scoring opponents and strong showings in shootouts. The key for him moving forward will be finding a rhythm and limiting the occasional blowup. The Senators need him to be both sturdy and consistent if they want to compete for an entire season.

The Bottom Line? Ullmark’s Grade for the 2025-26 Season So Far

Ullmark’s season so far is a mixed bag. There have been moments of brilliance, bouts of frustration, and plenty of questions about consistency. But he’s still a capable goalie who can steal a game or two, and Ottawa needs that veteran presence. For fans, it’s a reminder that a No. 1 goalie’s job is never easy: one night you’re a hero, the next you’re chasing the game. Ullmark’s still grinding, and that’s worth something.

After a mix of standout games and rough outings, Ullmark earns a solid C+ so far. He’s capable when on, but too inconsistent to grade higher.