Senators 'disgusted' by 'ridiculous speculation' about Ullmark's leave

The Ottawa Senators strongly denied online rumors regarding goaltender Linus Ullmark's personal leave of absence in a statement published Thursday.

"Our organization was extremely disappointed to read the completely fabricated and false stories that are spreading around social media about our hockey club," Senators president of hockey operations and general manager Steve Staios said. "Linus is away from our team for personal reasons, and he has the entire organization's support.

"We asked that people respect his privacy, but clearly that request was not heard by the lowest forms of trolls and sick people who scour the internet. We are disgusted that outside forces are attempting to disrupt our hockey club. This statement will put an end to the ridiculous speculation that has spread online."

The Senators announced Dec. 28 that Ullmark was stepping away from the team indefinitely due to a personal matter. The club moved him to a non-roster spot Thursday to activate forward Lars Eller off injured reserve.

Ullmark last played Dec. 27 against the Toronto Maple Leafs, allowing four goals on 14 shots in a 7-5 loss. The former Vezina Trophy winner owns an .881 save percentage in 28 appearances this season.