Senators Continue to Show an Unwillingness to Develop Goalies

The Hockey Writers argues that the Ottawa Senators continue to show a flawed development approach after losing 24-year-old goaltender Leevi Merilainen on waivers to the Vancouver Canucks. Ottawa placed Merilainen on waivers after deciding Samuel Ersson would serve as the primary backup to Linus Ullmark. Following the waiver claim, the Senators traded future considerations to the Tampa Bay Lightning to acquire 31-year-old netminder Jonas Johansson.

The article criticizes Ottawa for repeatedly parting with young goaltending talent in favor of veteran options, citing past departures such as Filip Gustavsson, Joey Daccord, Robin Lehner, and Ben Bishop. The outlet also highlights that adding Johansson blocks AHL development minutes for young prospects Kevin Reidler and Jackson Parsons, reinforcing a historical lack of organizational patience.