Feb 1, 2025; Ottawa, Ontario, CAN; Ottawa Senators goalie Leevi Merilainen (1) makes a save in front of Minnesota Wild left wing Matt Boldy (12) in the third period at the Canadian Tire Centre. Mandatory Credit: Marc DesRosiers-Imagn Images

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Senators Recall Goaltender Leevi Merilainen from AHL

Ottawa bolsters its goaltending depth by calling up Leevi Meriläinen from Belleville.

The Ottawa Senators have recalled goaltender Leevi Merilainen from AHL Belleville, adding him to their roster alongside Anton Forsberg and Linus Ullmark. This move isn’t injury-related but rather a strategic decision to give Ullmark a night off after handling seven straight starts. Merilainen will back up Forsberg for Ottawa’s matchup against the Flyers.

With the post-trade deadline roster limit lifted, the Senators have more flexibility in managing their lineup. However, calling up Merilainen counts as one of their four standard recalls since it doesn’t qualify as an emergency move. Despite this, the team sees value in giving their young netminder NHL exposure.

The @Senators have recalled goaltender Leevi Meriläinen from the #BellevilleSens in today's Top Pick Painters Transaction. pic.twitter.com/3PxMXkTwfx
— Belleville Senators (@BellevilleSens) March 11, 2025

At 22, Merilainen has already turned heads with his performance this season. In 11 starts and one relief appearance for Ottawa, he has posted a stellar .925 save percentage and 1.99 goals-against average. His strong play has positioned him as the team’s third-choice goaltender, ahead of Mads Søgaard. Even in Belleville, he has remained solid, maintaining a .910 save percentage in the AHL.

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Merilainen’s NHL numbers have been stronger than Forsberg’s, who has struggled with a .895 save percentage and 2.82 GAA. Some may argue that the young Finn should be allowed to start, especially with the Senators fighting for a playoff spot. However, for now, he will remain in a backup role and likely return to Belleville soon.

Looking ahead, Meriläinen’s recall raises questions about Ottawa’s goaltending future. Forsberg is set to become a free agent this summer, and his recent struggles might push the Senators to consider other options.

Image Credit: Marc DesRosiers-Imagn Images

Leevi Merilainen

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ottawa Senators

Anamika Shrivastava

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