Senators sign Leevi Meriläinen, consider three-goalie strategy

The Ottawa Senators signed Leevi Meriläinen to a one-year, $1.1 million contract for the 2026-27 season, adding to their goaltending depth. The signing raises the possibility of the Senators carrying three goalies on their NHL roster next season, a strategy recently utilized by the Carolina Hurricanes. This decision may hinge on the performance and availability of Linus Ullmark, who has a history of injuries. Keeping both Meriläinen and Samuel Ersson alongside Ullmark could provide the team with necessary experience should injuries occur, though it poses a challenge for Meriläinen's development. The Senators aim to avoid losing Meriläinen without compensation, indicating their belief in his potential as an NHL goaltender.

• 10:52 PMYahoo Sports — Are The Senators Planning To Carry Three Goalies On Their Roster?