Is the Linus Ullmark Trade a Mistake for Boston?
The Boston Bruins have finally traded goaltender Linus Ullmark to the Ottawa Senators. In return, they received goalie Joonas Korpisalo, forward Mark Kastelic, and the 25th pick in the 2024 NHL Draft. This draft pick was originally Boston’s before it was used in the Tyler Bertuzzi acquisition. Ullmark has not yet agreed to a contract extension with Ottawa, and Korpisalo will cost Boston $3 million annually for the next four years, with Ottawa retaining $1 million of his salary. Kastelic, who has one year left on his contract at $835,000, will become a restricted free agent after the 2024-25 season.
Rumors suggest Ullmark plans to play out the season and then explore free agency, which might have reduced the value of the former Vezina Trophy winner. However, contract extensions can’t be filed until July 1, so Ottawa still has time to negotiate with him. During his time in Boston, the Swedish goaltender recorded an 88-26-10 record over 130 games, with a 2.28 goals-against average and a .924 save percentage. He shared a notable bond with teammate Jeremy Swayman.
Korpisalo, on the other hand, has struggled with a heavier workload. In 55 games this season, the 6-foot-3 goalie had a 3.27 goals-against average and an .890 save percentage. Over his career, the 30-year-old has a 3.06 GAA and a .901 save percentage. Boston expects Korpisalo to compete for the backup position behind Swayman. If they consider a buyout, the salary cap implications would be: $250,000 for the 2024-25 season, $625,000 for 2025-26, $1.375 million for 2026-27, $1.75 million for 2027-28, and $1 million annually until 2030-31.
Kastelic is a physically imposing forward with speed. The 6-foot-4, 226-pound center scored five goals and five assists this season, averaging 7:43 of ice time. Known for his physical play and fighting ability, Kastelic is a respected teammate but isn’t expected to contribute significantly to the offense. The 2019 fifth-round pick can, however, win faceoffs and provide a strong presence on the ice.
The first-round draft pick remains uncertain. The draft appears to be top-heavy, with a drop in talent after the first 10-15 picks. The Bruins need prospects, especially at center. One to watch is Guelph Storm center Jett Luchanko. The Bruins previously selected Guelph center Matt Poitras in 2022 and might consider Luchanko, who possesses the speed, skill, and hockey IQ to potentially succeed in the NHL.
While the return for Ullmark has faced scrutiny, the long-term impact on the Bruins is still unknown. Their plans for Korpisalo, potential draft picks, or Kastelic’s role could shape the outcome of this trade. Expect Boston to remain active as the July 1 contract deadline approaches.
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