Bruins trade Ullmark to the senators…get Korpisalo & 1st round pick back

Bruins trade Ullmark to the senators…get Korpisalo & 1st round pick back

 

The Ottawa Senators have completed a trade to acquire goaltender Linus Ullmark from the Boston Bruins, finalizing a deal that sees the Senators bolster their goaltending depth in exchange for a package centered around a 2024 first-round draft pick, the 25th overall selection. Additionally, the Bruins receive forward Mark Kastelic and goaltender Joonas Korpisalo, with Boston retaining 25 percent ($1 million) of Korpisalo’s salary.

Speculation surrounding this trade had been circulating for weeks, fueled by Ottawa’s urgent need to enhance their goaltending situation and Boston’s surplus of talented netminders. Despite interest from several teams, Ottawa’s pressing requirement made them the front-runners in negotiations.

For the Senators, acquiring Ullmark represents a significant upgrade between the pipes, addressing a longstanding issue since the departure of Craig Anderson. Previous attempts to stabilize the position, such as the signing of Korpisalo, ultimately fell short, prompting new General Manager Steve Staios to seek a definitive solution.

Ullmark, currently 30 years old and in the final year of his contract earning $5 million annually, brings a Vezina-winning pedigree to Ottawa. Although a contract extension cannot be formalized until July 1, there is strong speculation that both parties have informally agreed on terms, likely a five- or six-year deal nearing $7 million per season, ensuring stability in goal for the Senators.

Meanwhile, the Bruins reclaim their 2024 first-round pick, originally traded to Detroit and subsequently acquired by Ottawa in an earlier deal involving Alex DeBrincat. The return to Boston of the 25th overall selection completes a full circle in the draft pick’s journey.

From Boston’s perspective, while parting with Ullmark and his potential as a tandem with Jeremy Swayman was a tough decision, it presented an opportunity to acquire valuable assets for their backup goaltender. The deal also alleviates future salary cap concerns, particularly with Swayman due for a significant contract extension.

While some Bruins supporters may lament the loss of a first-round pick, Kastelic’s addition provides depth at center, known for his physical play and energy on the ice. Moreover, Korpisalo, despite mixed performance metrics in Ottawa, offers capable goaltending depth behind Swayman in Boston, especially with the salary retention mitigating financial impact.

Overall, the trade marks a strategic move for both teams, addressing immediate needs and future considerations. Ottawa secures a cornerstone in net with Ullmark, aiming to stabilize their goaltending for years to come, while Boston replenishes draft assets and maintains flexibility in their roster composition. The transaction underscores the dynamic nature of NHL trades, balancing short-term gains with long-term planning in a competitive league landscape.