In return for Boston, Ullmark enjoys a welcome OT win with the Senators

BOSTON – Shortly after warm-ups began, Linus Ullmark and Jeremy Swayman met at the red line near the benches. They touched gloves, hugged and posed for photos. Hours later, the two hugged again in a more private room as Swayman and Boston Bruins defenseman Brandon Carlo met their former teammate outside the visiting locker room at TD Garden. The trio chatted in the hallway, something they had done countless times over the past three seasons.

None of the hugs were quite the same as the ones Bruins fans had become accustomed to, the massive post-win hugs that spawned copycats and T-shirts.

But that was to be expected, because this time Ullmark wore a different logo.

It was a triumphant return to Boston for Ullmark, who spent three highly successful seasons with the Bruins, winning the 2023 Vezina Trophy, being voted the NHL’s top goaltender and sharing the William M. Jennings Trophy with Swayman as the team’s goaltender the fewest goals in the same season.

After a save on Elias Lindholm 13 seconds into overtime – the Bruins’ first shot on goal since 15:53 ​​of the second period – a 2-on-1 rush ended with a game-winning goal by Brady Tkachuk 21 seconds into the extra session, a 3-2 win for the Ottawa Senators.

“There was definitely a lot there [of emotions]said Ullmark. “I won’t lie. It was busy, especially during the warm-up. I had goosebumps when I walked out and heard the audience again.

“Besides, it’s not easy to win in this barn. That’s what you dream about, especially when you’re competing here as an opponent. You really want to do your best.”