Emergency Call-Up: Senators Prepare for Game Without Linus Ullmark

The Ottawa Senators find themselves in a tight spot as they may have to take on the Los Angeles Kings without their star goalie, Linus Ullmark. The 31-year-old netminder unexpectedly missed practice, prompting concerns about his availability for the important matchup on Monday afternoon.

Ullmark, who recently signed a lucrative four-year, $33 million contract extension, was sidelined during practice on Sunday at the Canadian Tire Centre due to a reported 'maintenance day.' Head coach Travis Green explained that Ullmark was feeling stiff and the team preferred to play it safe by observing him further with medical staff. 'Linus was stiff. We don’t feel right playing him,' Green stated in an interview before the game. The team aims to ensure he is in optimal health before taking the ice again.

In a proactive move, the Senators have recalled goaltender Mads Sogaard from their American Hockey League affiliate in Belleville. The 22-year-old has been brought in on an emergency basis and is poised to take the backup role behind Anton Forsberg in the upcoming 1 p.m. home game. Sogaard brings fresh energy to the squad, having suited up for just one game this season, where his team fell to the Syracuse Crunch in a nail-biting shootout.

In the previous match against the Montreal Canadiens, Ullmark endured a challenging performance by allowing four goals on 26 shots in a 4-1 defeat. This setback, along with his missed time during training camp due to an undisclosed injury earlier in the season, has raised eyebrows about his current readiness.

Anton Forsberg has had a mixed history against the Kings, holding a 1-2-0 record in four career matchups, accompanied by a solid 2.09 goals-against average and impressive .930 save percentage. With the stakes high and the team relying on him, Forsberg will need to step up to ensure the Senators can clinch a vital win.

As fans and analysts await further updates on Ullmark's condition, all eyes will be on the Senators to see how they adapt to this sudden change in their lineup. Can they rally together and secure a victory without their star goalie? Only time will tell. Stay tuned for the latest on this developing story!