Ottawa Senators Lock in Leevi Merilainen with New $1.05 Million Deal!

Ottawa, Canada - The Ottawa Senators have made a significant move in the off-season by signing goaltender Leevi Meriläinen to a one-year contract extension worth $1.05 million. This marks a promising development for the team, as they look to solidify their goaltending lineup moving forward. Meriläinen, a third-round draft pick in 2020, has shown potential as a reliable goalie in his brief career thus far.

During the 2024-25 season, Meriläinen stood out with a remarkable 8-3-1 record in 12 NHL games, showcasing an impressive 1.99 goals-against average and a stellar .925 save percentage. Notably, he recorded three shutouts during the season, including an exceptional 6-0 victory against the Minnesota Wild on February 1. Leevi’s performance suggests that he is not just a promising talent but a player capable of stepping up when needed. His contributions were further enhanced during his time with the AHL’s Belleville Senators, where he achieved an 18-12-4 record and a .913 save percentage.

Transition and Expectations

The one-way nature of Meriläinen’s new contract signals that the Senators expect him to take on a more prominent role within the team. As Anton Forsberg prepares to enter unrestricted free agency, Meriläinen is poised to become the backup to starter Linus Ullmark. General manager Steve Staios emphasized that the organization is committed to building a strong foundation with emerging players like Meriläinen leading the charge.

Asked about Meriläinen’s potential, Staios mentioned the importance of consistent performance, stating, „Leevi has shown us flashes of his capabilities. It’s about providing him with the right environment to thrive.“ This confidence is mirrored by fans eager to see how he develops in the upcoming season.

Looking Ahead

This contract extension not only reflects the Senators‘ faith in Meriläinen but also highlights their broader strategy. The organization has extended qualifying offers to several talented prospects, including forwards Xavier Bourgault and Jan Jenik, as well as defencemen Max Guenette and Donovan Sebrango. The Senators are clearly investing in the future, assembling a roster that is designed to compete hard in the coming years.

As fans eagerly await the start of the next season, the atmosphere around the Senators is charged with excitement. With Leevi Meriläinen in the fold, there’s a sense of optimism that perhaps this could be a turning point for the franchise. Ottawa has a promising young core, and it will be interesting to see how their strategy plays out on the ice.

In the end, the Senators are betting on youth, skills, and determination, and for players like Meriläinen, this is their moment to shine.