Just In: Boston Bruins’ David Pastrňák has just been handed 4 games suspension for violating NHL’s policy surrounding performance enhancing substances……Read more

Reuniting tonight is one of the best goaltender duos of recent memory. Just imagine if they were on opposing sides of the ice.

With the help of Jeremy Swayman and Linus Ullmark, the Boston Bruins set a new record for most wins in a single season with 65 in 2023. They guided their team to the playoffs last year as well, but they were eliminated in the second round by the eventual Cup Champions, the Florida Panthers.

Not only have they been successful together for the last three years, but their friendship has also caused fans to go wild. Their “goalie hugs” became viral, generating millions of impressions, and fans speculated that they had the league’s most genuine connection.

Nevertheless, following the 2023–2024 season, the Bruins dealt Ullmark to the Ottawa Senators following their second-round exit, leaving “Sway-mark” fans in utter disarray.

This was the pinnacle of success for the Ottawa Bruins fan. Ullmark has finally found a team where he can contribute positively while also having fun; the Bruins obviously couldn’t hold on to the tandem forever.

The Ottawa Senators’ need for a more reliable goaltender was obvious, and Ullmark has shown that he can be that player. In his debut game with the franchise, he made it plain by exacting retribution against a Panthers squad he was familiar with. Now he must exact the same exactions against yet another squad he is all too acquainted with.

At three points apiece, the Senators and Bruins occupy the centre of the pack in the standings; the Bruins have played fifteen games, while the Senators have played twelve. It seems like a few key components are lacking for both teams. After trading away a number of important players in the offseason, the Bruins have yet to establish a consistent playing style, while the Senators have yet to overcome the immaturity of their younger roster.

Both teams have had problems along the blue line; the Senators’ defence was never fully developed, while the Bruins’ defence is a shadow of its former self.

Tim Stützle and David Pastrnak will square off as the offensive side’s top performers. Contrary to popular belief, this marquee match must take place between the pipes.

Both goalies appear to be in good shape going into this encounter. With an impressive save percentage of.894, Swayman boasts a 3.14 GAA. With a save percentage of.891, Ullmark’s 3.02 GAA is marginally superior. After seven starts in the 2024–25 season, Swayman has a 4-5-1-1 record, while Ullmark has a 2-4-0 record.

Both teams are desperate to get back on track, so they’ll be relying on their goalies to keep them in the game. Even though Swayman and the Bruins will be playing at TD Garden, I get the impression that Ullmark will be more comfortable there.