Linus Ullmark is more than deserving of First All-Star selection
Over the last few months, Linus Ullmark has played the best hockey of his career. The former sixth-round pick has been a human highlight reel and seized the starting job in Boston. Earlier this week, he was recognized for his stellar play and reached a significant milestone.
The Swedish native was recently named to the 2023 All-Star game. It is the first time in his career that Ullmark has received the honor, and he is more than deserving. Through 25 games, he has posted a 21-1-1 record. He has already recorded two shutouts and has a 1.89 goals-against average. After a solid first season in Boston, he has shattered expectations in year two.
As the Bruins have skyrocketed to the top of the Eastern Conference, the former 163rd overall pick has been a critical piece. He has only allowed more than three goals in a start once this season. While he has frustrated opponents, Ullmark has built a compelling case for the Vezina trophy.
Entering play on Saturday, Ullmark leads all NHL goalies in GAA, save percentage, and wins. The only category he does not hold the top spot in is shutouts which he trails the league leader by one. For the 29-year-old, it has been a stretch he will never forget.
While his impact has been undeniable, Ullmark is far from done. This Bruins team has championship aspirations, and the play of Ullmark could determine how far they go. He has met the challenge through the first few months of the season and has been hard to beat as the pressure increases.
In his last two starts, Ullmark has faced 58 shots and only allowed two goals. During that span, he started the Winter Classic and, on the national stage, did not disappoint. In a few weeks, he will be on one of the game's biggest stages and experience something he has been waiting for his whole career for.
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