Linus Ullmark issues testy non-statement after Bruins goaltender's trade request becomes public

By Abhilasha Aditi

Modified May 19, 2024 17:14 GMT

Boston Bruins goaltender Linus Ullmark finds himself in a precarious position as trade talks circulate after the Bruins' playoff exit. Ullmark has expressed concerns about the possibility of being moved, citing potential disruption to his family life.

Having two school-aged children (Harry and Lily), the idea of uprooting them understandably weighed heavily on his mind. Despite the uncertainty, Ullmark remained tight-lipped about whether he would exercise his partial trade protection. He stated that the teams on his list were there for personal reasons known only to himself, his family and his agent.

"I asked Ullmark about his no-trade and if he would exercise right this summer. Said the teams that are on his list are on there for a reason, and he doesn’t want to disclose reasons why. Says it’s between himself, his family, and agent," Ty Anderson tweeted

Reports indicate that Ullmark is keen on returning to the Bruins and is motivated to prove himself on what has been dubbed a "revenge tour."

"Linus Ullmark wants to return. Feels like he’ll be on a “revenge tour,” Fluto Shinzawa shared on X

"My future here? I got one more year. I have one more year. I wouldn't want anything else than to come back here, get a little bit of a revenge tour. I'm very excited, motivated for what's to come," Amalie Benjamin shared on X

However, whether he would entertain an offseason trade remains uncertain.

Boston Bruins goalie Linus Ullmark faces precarious situation

Despite expressing excitement for the postseason, Linus Ullmark spent most of his time on the bench, watching his teammate Jeremy Swayman shine.

Now out of the playoffs, Ullmark faces the prospect of free agency next year, prompting him to consider his future carefully. While he could restrict trade options to enhance his chances of becoming a starter elsewhere, factors like the team's contending status, geography and desire to stay play into his decision-making.

Having endured the challenges of playing for struggling teams like the Buffalo Sabres, Ullmark likely prioritizes joining a competitive roster. However, geographical preferences, influenced by his family's needs and his native Sweden, add complexity to potential trade scenarios. Ullmark's willingness to be traded also remains uncertain, with the possibility of him limiting options to remain with the Bruins, albeit with risks attached.

Meanwhile, the Bruins face their own considerations. They aim to secure a beneficial deal for Linus Ullmark while assessing internal options like Brandon Bussi as Swayman's backup. With other goalies available on the market, they must balance setting a reasonable asking price with securing valuable assets.