Senators Lock Up Merilainen for Another Season
The Ottawa Senators are continuing to build out their goaltending depth, signing 23-year-old Leevi Merilainen to a one-year contract worth $1.1 million USD — a move that gives the organization three options between the pipes heading into next season.
The deal comes just 24 hours after the Senators secured veteran Samuel Ersson to serve as the backup to franchise starter Linus Ullmark, making for a busy couple of days in Ottawa's crease.
Who Is Leevi Merilainen?
The Finnish netminder has been developing in the Senators system and brings youthful promise to what is shaping up to be a well-rounded goaltending stable. At 23, Merilainen still has significant room to grow, and Ottawa clearly sees value in keeping him in the fold rather than letting him test the market.
Having a young goaltender on a cost-controlled deal gives the Senators organizational flexibility — whether Merilainen sees time at the NHL level, continues developing in the AHL, or provides insurance depth in the event of injury up top.
Ottawa's Goaltending Picture
With Ullmark firmly entrenched as the starter, Ersson providing experienced backup support, and Merilainen as a developmental option, the Senators have given themselves solid coverage at one of hockey's most critical positions.
This kind of layered approach to goaltending — a proven starter, a capable NHL-ready backup, and a young prospect with upside — is exactly what contending teams aim for. It reflects a front office that isn't taking any chances after working hard to build a competitive roster around a core that includes Brady Tkachuk, Tim Stützle, and company.
Building Toward a Playoff Push
Ottawa fans have plenty of reasons for optimism heading into the upcoming season. The Senators have been steadily upgrading their roster, and these goaltending moves signal a franchise that is serious about competing — not just participating.
Merilainen's return, while perhaps overshadowed by the Ersson signing, is a quiet but meaningful piece of the puzzle. Keeping a promising young goalie on a reasonable one-year deal makes sense from both a development and cap management standpoint.
What Sens Fans Should Watch
The interesting question now is where Merilainen fits into the day-to-day lineup. If Ersson handles backup duties at the NHL level, Merilainen may get significant time with the Belleville Senators in the AHL — which could be exactly what he needs to take the next step in his career.
For Ottawa hockey fans, the offseason is moving quickly, and the goaltending situation looks more settled than it has in years. With Ullmark leading the charge and depth behind him, the crease at Canadian Tire Centre is in good hands.
Source: Ottawa Citizen
