By: Chad Jones I Follow me on Twitter/X @ShutUpChadJones
Saturday night, the Ottawa Senators bested the Boston Bruins 3-2 in Linus Ullmark’s first game back at TD Garden since being traded this past June. Brady Tkachuk buried the game-winning goal past Jeremy Swayman 21 seconds into overtime. The Bruins were credited with a mere single shot on goal during the third period and the extra frame.
Coming into the contest, it was clear that this matchup would be more significant than just one of 82 regular season games. Bruins fans and players sang the praises of Boston’s former netminder, especially his long-time hugging companion.
“It still feels like a got his presence around here,” Swayman told the media earlier this week. “The traditions that we had still live on. And that’s with every guy that’s been through this locker room and the relationships that I’ve had with forwards and d-men alike and staff. So, that’s a testament to the guys that have been through this locker room and worn the jersey. And we’re brothers for life.”
Before the puck was dropped, Swayman and Ullmark shared a quick hug and posed together for a photo during warmups. It was not the same embrace Bruins fans witnessed the two share after wins during their three seasons splitting time in Boston’s crease. However, it was clear the trade had not weakened their connection.
The Black and Gold faithful also ensured Ullmark received a full-throated thank you. During a stoppage, TD Garden’s video scoreboard ran a tribute for Ullmark, who corralled 88 regular season wins and posted a .924 save percentage and 2.28 goals-against average while dawning the Spoked-B. The Bruins fans in attendance rose to their feet and clapped enthusiastically for the former Boston goaltender.
During the game, Ullmark benefited from a stout Ottawa defense, as the Bruins did not muster a shot on goal during the entire third period. He proved sharp when Boston was on the man advantage, as the Bruins could not find the back of the net on either of their power play opportunities.
Swayman was certainly not the main culprit behind Boston’s loss. He faced more rubber his way as Boston’s goaltender stopped 31 of 34 Ottawa’s shots. Josh Norris potted the Senator’s lone power-play tally. Regardless of the outcome, both Swayman and Ullmark grasped the importance of the game.
“It was a special game,” Swayman said following Boston’s defeat. “We share such an incredible bond, and seeing him in another jersey is different. I’m very happy for him and the success he is having. I expected a game like that, back and forth. It’s fun to watch him succeed.”
Ullmark was asked about his emotions before the game. The goaltender described what it was like getting back on TD Garden’s ice.
“I had goosebumps going out there and hearing the crowd again,” Ullmark told the media postgame. “Just getting the win in this barn is not easy.”
While their time as teammates has ended, Swayman and Ullmark still share an undeniable connection. Both of them obviously want the other to succeed, regardless of what organization they play for.
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