Team exposed in Linus Ullmark’s blocked trade at deadline!

Reports have kept surfacing that the Boston Bruins came awfully close to trading veteran goaltender Linus Ullmark at the National Hockey League’s trade deadline, with rumors suggesting that the only reason the trade failed to go through was due to Ullmark using his trade protection to block the deal.

In his latest written version of 32 Thoughts on Sportsnet, Elliotte Friedman reported more on the blocked trade and reveals which team almost landed Ullmark before he refused to waive his clause:

“It was a hard week for Ullmark. He badly wanted to stay in Boston, getting his wish. While he and GM Don Sweeney wouldn’t comment, the goalie declined to waive his no-trade for one location, believed to be Los Angeles. No problems here; that’s his right, in his contract. But I do believe the Bruins looked at more than one option, including somewhere Ullmark cannot block. Obviously, those didn’t happen, and we’ll see how things evolve. Boston rejected at least one ask about Jeremy Swayman."

While rumours and more trade attempts may occur in the summer, Friedman however believes that the goalie market will be so loaded up that the Bruins may reconsider breaking apart the incredible duo in Boston.

“Some things left over from the trade deadline: It’s going to be a very interesting goalie market this summer. Calgary pulled back Jacob Markstrom , Nashville did the same with Juuse Saros . Boston investigated Linus Ullmark , punting that decision down the road. New Jersey acquired Jake Allen and Kaapo Kahkonen, maintaining flexibility to add someone else if they so choose. Allen had to waive his no-trade, and was smart to do so. By agreeing to move now, he won’t have to worry about finding a dance partner when there’s more supply. That’s one of the reasons Boston considered breaking up its excellent duo, because the summer market will be more crowded. A glut is great for shoppers, not sellers.”

The blocked trade that reportedly took place on Deadline Day surely taught the Bruins a lesson. Ullmark’s contract comes loaded with a 16 team no-trade list and he will have an opportunity to submit a new list of 16 teams prior to next season.

The knowledge that he has gained about potentially being traded leading up to the deadline will no doubt impact which teams Ullmark adds to his list next season, which could further complicate things for the Bruins if they still plan on moving him in a monster deal.

Recommended articles:

• Linus Ullmark still headed for a trade: 'I don't think this is over.'
• Linus Ullmark responds to rumors of a blocked trade.
• Rumor: Bruins star blocks major trade at deadline.
• Reported Linus Ullmark trade almost took place on Deadline Day!
• Rumblings of monster trade breaking between Kings and Bruins, involving Pierre-Luc Dubois