Senators sign veteran James Reimer to a one-year, one-way deal while Linus Ullmark remains on personal leave, highlighting goalie uncertainty. For bettors, Ottawa's unstable crease favors backing underdogs or taking higher over/under totals in upcoming games until a clear starter returns—expect shorter moneyline odds on Senators and inflated goal lines.
Senators Sign James Reimer as Ullmark Remains on Leave
The Ottawa Senators in the NHL have added veteran goaltender James Reimer on a one-year, one-way contract for the remainder of the 2025–26 season as starter Linus Ullmark continues on a personal leave that began Dec. 28. The move underscores Ottawa’s need for experienced depth in net amid an unsettled crease.
Contract Details and Immediate Impact
Reimer, 37, arrives as a depth option expected to stabilize a team struggling defensively since Ullmark’s absence. The one-year, one-way nature of the deal signals the Senators want roster certainty and veteran presence through the stretch run.
Reimer’s Experience and Profile
Reimer has played more than 500 NHL games since being drafted 99th overall in 2006. He owns a career save percentage around .910 and has been a steady, low-drama option across stops with Toronto, Florida, Carolina, San Jose, Detroit, Anaheim and Buffalo. His track record makes him a short-term, reliable piece while Ottawa sorts its goalie situation.
What Reimer Brings to Ottawa
Expect steadiness, veteran leadership and a bounce-back mindset. Reimer’s experience will be valuable for game-to-game consistency and mentoring younger players, though his career numbers suggest he’s more of a dependable backup or tandem starter than a long-term No. 1.
Ullmark’s Leave and Locker-Room Response
Ullmark was granted a leave for personal reasons on Dec. 28. Team leaders have publicly expressed support and called for privacy amid unverified rumors surrounding his absence. Before stepping away, Ullmark posted a 14-8-5 record with an .881 save percentage, and the team’s defensive struggles since then prompted management to shore up the position.
Team Stability Concerns
The signing raises questions about Ottawa’s crease stability and organizational options. Bringing in a veteran journeyman suggests the club is prioritizing experience and low-risk solutions while awaiting clarity on Ullmark’s return.
Betting Implications and Market Angles
With crease uncertainty and a new veteran starter, expect short-term volatility in betting markets. Ottawa may carry shorter moneyline odds in games while goalies adjust, and sportsbooks could inflate over/under totals given defensive inconsistency. Sharp bettors might target underdog value on the road and monitor which goalie is announced as the starter before placing bets.
Key Betting Tips
- Wait for the announced starter before betting moneylines or goalie props. - Consider taking higher game totals early, then fade after Reimer finds his rhythm. - Look for underdog +odds on teams facing Ottawa until consistent goaltending returns.
The Ottawa Senators have signed veteran goaltender James Reimer to a one-year, one-way contract for the remainder of the 2025‐26 season while starter Linus Ullmark remains on a personal leave since la
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