The Ottawa Senators' Captain Brady Tkachuk and his teammates are facing a storm of unfounded rumors about Linus Ullmark, their goalie, who is currently on a personal leave. Tkachuk, in a recent statement, expressed his frustration and support for Ullmark, denouncing the spread of false narratives on social media. He emphasized that the rumors, which involve Ullmark's family, are not only untrue but also deeply disturbing.
Tkachuk's reaction comes as a response to the growing concern within the team and the public about the impact of these rumors. He stated that while constructive criticism of their on-ice performance is acceptable, attacking personal matters, especially family, is unacceptable and crosses a line. The team's support for Ullmark is unwavering, with Tkachuk personally reaching out to him to offer his solidarity.
The Senators' president, Steve Staios, also addressed the issue, releasing a statement that strongly condemned the fabricated stories circulating online. The team emphasized their commitment to protecting Ullmark's privacy and expressed disgust at the attempts of online trolls to disrupt their hockey club. Ullmark, a 32-year-old netminder, has been a key player for the Senators, appearing in 28 games this season with a .881 save percentage and a 2.95 goals-against average.
This incident highlights the challenges athletes face in maintaining their privacy and the importance of media responsibility in reporting accurate information. The team's swift action and support for Ullmark demonstrate their commitment to addressing this issue head-on, ensuring that their player's well-being remains a top priority.