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Merilainen, Leevi #1 (G)  - Ottawa Senators - 2024/2025 Regular Season
Height: 6'3''
Weight: 186 lbs.
Shoots: L
Born on: Aug. 13, 2002
Age: 22
Birthplace: Oulu, None
Salary: $0.000M
Cap Hit: $0.000M
NHL.com: Go
Draft Round: 3
Draft Pick: 71
Draft Year: 2020
Rookie Year: 2020
Draft Team: OTT

Statistics - 2024/2025 Regular Season

Split GP GS W L OTL GA SV SV% SO A P/G
Actual 12 12 8 3 1 23 292 92.7 3 0 0.92
Projected 16 16 11 4 1 30 386 92.7 4 0

Date News Advice
Feb. 25, 2025 Merilainen was placed in the AHL's concussion protocol Monday, Steve Lloyd of TSN 1200 Ottawa reports. - Merilainen reportedly told head coach David Bell that he was fine, so it's unclear if he will be an option to face AHL Manitoba on Wednesday. While the netminder's injury won't immediately impact the Senators, it could be an issue if Linus Ullmark or Anton Forsberg gets hurt in the short term. None
Feb. 2, 2025 Merilainen was reassigned to AHL Belleville on Sunday. - Merilainen has been outstanding for Ottawa, posting an 8-3-1 record, 1.99 GAA and .925 save percentage across 12 outings this season. He earned a 16-save shutout victory over Minnesota on Saturday. However, Linus Ullmark (back) is off injured reserve, so Merilainen was sent to the minors to make room. Anton Forsberg is set to serve as Ullmark's understudy. None
Feb. 1, 2025 Merilainen will patrol the home crease versus Minnesota on Saturday, Bruce Garrioch of Postmedia reports. - Merilainen was outstanding Sunday, stopping 34 of 35 shots in a 3-1 win over Utah. The victory gave Merilainen a 7-3-1 record to go with a 2.19 GAA and a .921 save percentage. The Wild are averaging 2.94 goals per game, 16th in the NHL. None
Jan. 27, 2025 Merilainen stopped 34 of 35 shots in Sunday's 3-1 win over Utah. - Merilainen allowed a second-period goal to Clayton Keller, one of the hottest players in the NHL over the last two weeks, but he was excellent the rest of the way. The 22-year-old has won five of his last seven starts, going 5-1-1 with a 1.69 GAA and a .940 save percentage over that span. He's expected to remain the top option between the pipes for Ottawa as long as Linus Ullmark (back) remains out. None
Jan. 26, 2025 Merilainen will protect the home net against Utah on Sunday, TSN 1200 Ottawa reports. - Merilainen will get the second half of Ottawa's back-to-back after Anton Forsberg played in Saturday's 2-1 win over Toronto. The 22-year-old Merilainen has a 6-3-1 record with two shutouts, a 2.32 GAA and a .914 save percentage through 10 NHL appearances this season. Utah sits 21st in the league with 2.88 goals per game in 2024-25. None
Jan. 22, 2025 Merilainen stopped 14 of 16 shots before being pulled in Tuesday's 5-0 loss to the Rangers. - Merilainen allowed two goals on 16 shots before he was replaced by Anton Forsberg at the 4:59 mark of the second period. This was Merilainen's first loss in regulation since Jan. 2, when he gave up four goals in a 4-2 loss to the Stars. The 22-year-old netminder has done a good job as the Senators' first-choice goaltender in recent weeks. He's gone 4-2-1 with a 2.17 GAA and a .920 save percentage across seven appearances in January, although it's worth noting that he owns the No. 1 role since Linus Ullmark remains sidelined with a back injury. None
Jan. 21, 2025 Merilainen will defend the road cage Tuesday versus the Rangers, according to TSN 1200 Ottawa. - Merilainen had his worst outing of the season Saturday, conceding five goals on 28 shots, but he still came out with a win in a high-scoring affair against Boston. The Finnish netminder has only lost twice in regulation through nine outings in 2024-25, turning in two shutouts over those appearances. The Rangers are coming off a 5-4 overtime loss to Montreal on Sunday. None
Jan. 19, 2025 Merilainen turned aside 23 shots in regulation and overtime and all three shootout attempts he faced in Saturday's 6-5 win over the Bruins. - The Senators out-shot the visitors 44-28, but Merilainen allowed a career-high five goals and needed some late heroics from Josh Norris at the end of the third period just to force OT. The 22-year-old netminder redeemed himself in extra time however, denying Charlie Coyle, David Pastrnak and Pavel Zacha in the shootout to secure the victory. Merilainen's time in the NHL could be coming to an end for now with Linus Ullmark (back) close to coming off IR, but he's firmly established himself as Ottawa's goalie of the future with his recent performances. Through nine NHL appearances this season, Merilainen has gone 6-2-1 with a 2.20 GAA and .917 save percentage, and with Anton Forsberg a free agent next offseason, it's possible the team will ship the veteran out and keep Merilainen around instead. None
Jan. 18, 2025 Merilainen is expected to start at home against Boston on Saturday, according to TSN 1200 Ottawa. - It will be Merilainen's fifth straight start, and it's not hard to see why Ottawa keeps going back to him. He's posted a 3-0-1 record, 0.74 GAA and .971 save percentage over that stretch, which gives him a 5-2-1 record with a 1.84 GAA and a .930 save percentage in eight outings this season. If Merilainen keeps playing like this, he might stick with the NHL squad even after Linus Ullmark (back) returns. The Bruins rank 26th in goals per game with 2.65. None
Jan. 16, 2025 Merilainen will tend the twine for Thursday's home matchup with Washington, Graeme Nichols of The Hockey News reports. - Merilainen will make his fourth consecutive start after posting an impressive 3-0-0 record, 0.67 GAA and two shutouts in his previous three tilts. With the 22-year-old backstop going Thursday, the team could decide to give Anton Forsberg the first game of a back-to-back against the Bruins on Saturday while saving Merilainen to face New Jersey on Sunday. Either way, Merilainen should continue to see plenty of starts moving forward given his strong level of play. None
Jan. 15, 2025 Merilainen made 24 saves in Tuesday's 2-0 win over the Islanders. - All of a sudden, the 22-year-old rookie might be the hottest goalie in the NHL. Merilainen has started three straight games and won all three, with two of those outings producing his first two career shutouts. In seven outings since he was called up in mid-December, he's gone 5-2-0 with a 1.98 GAA and .925 save percentage, and the Senators appear willing to give him a shot at taking the No. 1 job away from Anton Forsberg. There's no timeline yet for Linus Ullmark (back) to make his return from IR, but the Sens could have a dilemma on their hands when he does -- or an opportunity to trade one of their veteran netminders -- if Merilainen is still surging. None
Jan. 14, 2025 Merilainen will defend the road cage Tuesday versus the Islanders, according to TSN 1200 Ottawa. - After conceding four goals in a loss to Dallas in his first start in January, Merilainen has won back-to-back games, including a 29-save shutout over Pittsburgh on Saturday. The Islanders are tied for 26th in the league with 2.67 goals per game, but they've played better recently, having gone 3-0-0 on their most recent road trip. None
Jan. 12, 2025 Merilainen made 29 saves in Saturday's 5-0 win over the Penguins. - Ottawa scored three times in the first period, so the only real suspense in the game came from whether Merilainen would be able to secure his first NHL shutout. The 22-year-old has played well overall since making his season debut in late December, going 3-2-0 in five outings with a 2.42 GAA and .911 save percentage. With Linus Ullmark (back) still lacking a timeline for his return, Merilainen should continue splitting the workload in the crease with Anton Forsberg for the Senators. None
Jan. 11, 2025 Merilainen will guard the road goal versus the Penguins on Saturday, according to Bruce Garrioch of Postmedia. - Merilainen has allowed 11 goals on 95 shots en route to a 2-2-0 record in four NHL appearances this season. He surrendered four goals on 25 shots to Dallas on Jan. 2 in a 4-2 loss during his last outing. Pittsburgh ranks 14th in the league with 3.07 goals per game in 2024-25. None
Jan. 2, 2025 Merilainen will tend the twine for Thursday's road game against Dallas, TSN 1200 Ottawa reports. - Merilainen has been inconsistent over his last few appearances, going 2-1-0 with a 2.68 GAA and .900 save percentage across his last three outings. Although he'll draw the start for the third time in the Senators' last five games, head coach Travis Green said that Anton Forsberg (lower body) will dress as the backup for Thursday's matchup, so Merilainen's opportunities will likely decrease soon. None
Dec. 30, 2024 Merilainen stopped 30 of 31 shots in Sunday's 3-1 win over Minnesota. - Merilainen has made three appearances this season and has posted a solid 2-1-0 record while giving up two of fewer goals in two of those outings. His save percentage isn't very high since he posted a figure below the .860 mark in his first two outings, though, so the sample is too small to assess what he might bring to the table. However, this was certainly an improved effort compared to his previous two outings. Merilainen figures to be in the NHL until at least one of Linus Ullmark (upper body) or Anton Forsberg (lower body) is able to return to action. None
Dec. 29, 2024 Merilainen is set to start on the road against Minnesota on Sunday, per TSN 1200 Ottawa. - Merilainen stopped 12 of 14 shots in 36:39 of ice time last Sunday and was charged for the loss in the 3-1 defeat to Edmonton. He also has turned aside 21 of 25 shots in a 5-4 overtime victory over Vancouver this campaign. The Wild have an impressive 22-10-4 record, though they are middling in terms of goals per game, tying for 20th with 2.94. None
Dec. 27, 2024 Merilainen was called up from AHL Belleville on Friday. - Merilainen has started the last two games, as Linus Ullmark (back) and Anton Forsberg (undisclosed) have both been out of action. Merilainen is 1-1-0 this season, allowing six goals on 39 shots. He could get another start in Winnipeg on Saturday if Ullmark and Forsberg are both unable to go. None
Dec. 23, 2024 Merilainen was loaned to AHL Belleville on Monday. - Merilainen entered Sunday's game against the Oilers at the start of the second period after Linus Ullmark (upper body) exited the matchup. Merilainen took the loss in the relief appearance and will head to the minors ahead of the NHL's Christmas break, which could signal that Ullmark or Anton Forsberg (undisclosed) could return to action following the layoff. None
Dec. 22, 2024 Merilainen stopped 12 of 14 shots in relief of Linus Ullmark (upper body) in Sunday's 3-1 loss to the Oilers. - The Senators tied the game at 1-1 early in the second period, but Merilainen gave up goals to Zach Hyman and Adam Henrique en route to taking the loss in his relief appearance. With due respect to the 22-year-old Merilainen, Ullmark's injury has put the Senators' goaltending depth in a worst-case scenario -- Anton Forsberg (undisclosed) is also out, and the team is on its longest road trip of the season. Merilianen has given up six goals on 39 shots across his two appearances. If both Ullmark and Forsberg are unavailable when the Senators' schedule resumes Saturday in Winnipeg, Merilainen would temporarily take over as the No. 1 goalie, and Mads Sogaard would likely rise to the NHL to fill the backup role. None
Dec. 21, 2024 Merilainen will guard the road net Saturday against the Canucks, TSN 1200 Ottawa reports. - It'll be the first start of the year for Merilainen. The 22-year-old netminder last appeared in the NHL in 2022, when he went 0-1-1 while stopping 43 of 49 shots across two games. Merilainen will be tasked with facing a Vancouver team that's averaging 3.09 goals per game this season. None
Dec. 15, 2024 Merilainen was recalled from AHL Belleville on Sunday. - Merilainen will accompany Ottawa on the team's four-game road trip before the holiday break. Anton Forsberg (undisclosed) didn't make his scheduled start against Pittsburgh on Saturday after suffering an injury while warming up for the game. With Forsberg staying behind for the trip, Linus Ullmark will likely see an increased workload. None
Oct. 25, 2024 Merilainen was sent down to AHL Belleville on Friday. - Merilainen was recalled Tuesday to back up Anton Forsberg as Linus Ullmark (strain) was unable to play. Merilaninen was 2-1-0 with a 3.47 GAA and an .852 save percentage with Belleville this season, before his recall. None
Oct. 22, 2024 Merilainen was recalled from AHL Belleville on Tuesday to serve as the backup against Utah, TSN 1200 Ottawa reports. - Merilainen's promotion comes as Anton Forsberg was confirmed as the starter Tuesday while Linus Ullmark (strain) remains on the shelf. With the team calling Ullmark day-to-day and no back-to-backs on the short-term schedule, Merilainen is unlikely to see any starts while up in the NHL. None
Sept. 29, 2024 Merilainen (groin) will be in the lineup for Sunday's preseason contest against Pittsburgh. - Merilainen had been unable to practice for most of training camp after injuring his groin during Ottawa's rookie camp. However, he could get his first game action of the preseason in Sunday's matchup. Merilainen will probably begin the 2024-25 campaign with AHL Belleville. None
Sept. 24, 2024 Merilainen has not participated in training camp yet due to a groin injury that occurred during rookie camp, per TSN 1200 Ottawa. - Merilainen was expected to compete with Mads Sogaard for the No. 1 goaltending gig with AHL Belleville, but it's unclear when the former will be ready to return. Merilainen appeared in two NHL contests with Ottawa during the 2022-23 campaign, going 0-1-1 with an .878 save percentage and a 4.23 GAA. The 22-year-old was a third-round selection by Ottawa in the 2020 NHL Draft. None
Sept. 19, 2024 Merilainen is dealing with a groin injury that isn't expected to be serious, Bruce Garrioch of Postmedia reports. - It's unclear when Merilainen suffered the injury, but it doesn't look to be a long-term concern. The 22-year-old goalie is likely to spend much of this season at AHL Belleville as a No. 3 option in goal for the Senators' organization. Linus Ullmark and Anton Forsberg are likely to get the bulk of the NHL starts. None
March 2, 2024 Merilainen was recalled from AHL Belleville on Saturday. - Joonas Korpisalo was unable to start Friday due to an illness. Merilainen is 7-6-1 with a 3.02 GAA and a .904 save percentage in 16 AHL appearances this season. The Senators are quite high on the 20-year-old Finnish netminder after selecting him in the third round of the 2020 Draft. None
April 7, 2023 Merilainen stopped nine of 12 shots before being replaced by Mads Sogaard early in the second period of Thursday's 7-2 loss to the Panthers. - It was a rough second appearance in the NHL for Merilainen, although Sogaard didn't fare any better in his place. With the Senators now officially eliminated from the playoffs, the two young netminders -- Sogaard is 22, while Merilainen is only 20 -- could see the bulk of the work between the pipes for the remainder of the schedule instead of 35-year-old Cam Talbot. None
April 6, 2023 Merilainen will be between the visiting pipes in Florida on Thursday, Wayne Scanlan of the Ottawa Citizen reports. - Merilainen made his NHL debut Tuesday in a 3-2 overtime loss to Carolina, stopping 34 shots. The Senators are on the verge of elimination in the Eastern Conference and are looking towards the future by playing Merilainen against the Panthers. Florida is fifth in NHL scoring, averaging 3.49 goals per game. None
April 5, 2023 Merilainen stopped 34 of 37 shots in the Senators' 3-2 overtime loss to the Hurricanes on Tuesday. - In his NHL debut, Merilainen started off shaky, allowing two goals in the first period. He would settle in the rest of the game before allowing the eventual game-winner in overtime. The Finnish netminder should remain the backup to Cam Talbot until Mads Sogaard is ready to return. None
April 4, 2023 Merilainen was the first goalie off the ice at the morning skate, TSN 1200 Ottawa reports, indicating he will start in Carolina on Tuesday. - Merilainen is poised to make his NHL debut after being called up from the minors Sunday. He posted a 41-save shutout win against Toronto in his AHL debut with Belleville on Saturday. Merilainen spent the first part of the year playing in Finland with Karpat. None

No Injuries found

No suspensions found
Date Opponent State Season
Mar 10 2025 19:30 EDT DET Pre-game 2024/2025 Regular Season
Mar 11 2025 19:00 EDT at PHI Pre-game 2024/2025 Regular Season
Mar 13 2025 19:00 EDT BOS Pre-game 2024/2025 Regular Season
Mar 15 2025 19:00 EDT at TOR Pre-game 2024/2025 Regular Season
Mar 18 2025 19:00 EDT at MTL Pre-game 2024/2025 Regular Season
Mar 20 2025 19:00 EDT COL Pre-game 2024/2025 Regular Season
Mar 22 2025 19:00 EDT at NJD Pre-game 2024/2025 Regular Season
Mar 25 2025 19:00 EDT at BUF Pre-game 2024/2025 Regular Season
Mar 27 2025 19:00 EDT at DET Pre-game 2024/2025 Regular Season
Mar 29 2025 19:00 EDT CBJ Pre-game 2024/2025 Regular Season
Mar 30 2025 17:00 EDT at PIT Pre-game 2024/2025 Regular Season
Apr 1 2025 19:00 EDT BUF Pre-game 2024/2025 Regular Season
Apr 3 2025 19:00 EDT TBL Pre-game 2024/2025 Regular Season
Apr 5 2025 14:00 EDT FLA Pre-game 2024/2025 Regular Season
Apr 6 2025 17:00 EDT CBJ Pre-game 2024/2025 Regular Season
Apr 8 2025 19:00 EDT at CBJ Pre-game 2024/2025 Regular Season
Apr 11 2025 19:00 EDT MTL Pre-game 2024/2025 Regular Season
Apr 13 2025 13:00 EDT PHI Pre-game 2024/2025 Regular Season
Apr 15 2025 19:00 EDT CHI Pre-game 2024/2025 Regular Season
Apr 17 2025 19:00 EDT CAR Pre-game 2024/2025 Regular Season
Date Opponent Result State GA SV SV% TOI
Feb 1 2025 19:00 EST MIN W 6-0 Final 0 16 100.0 60:00
Jan 26 2025 17:00 EST UTA W 3-1 Final 1 34 97.1 60:00
Jan 21 2025 19:00 EST at NYR L 0-5 Final 2 14 87.5 24:59
Jan 18 2025 15:00 EST BOS W 6-5 F/OT 5 23 82.1 62:01
Jan 16 2025 19:00 EST WSH L 0-1 F/OT 1 25 96.2 63:07
Jan 14 2025 19:30 EST at NYI W 2-0 Final 0 24 100.0 60:00
Jan 12 2025 17:00 EST DAL W 3-2 Final 2 24 92.3 60:00
Jan 11 2025 16:00 EST at PIT W 5-0 Final 0 29 100.0 60:00
Jan 2 2025 20:00 EST at DAL L 2-4 Final 4 21 84.0 56:19
Dec 29 2024 20:00 EST at MIN W 3-1 Final 1 30 96.8 59:37
Dec 22 2024 20:00 EST at EDM L 1-3 Final 2 12 85.7 36:38
Dec 21 2024 22:00 EST at VAN W 5-4 F/OT 4 21 84.0 60:15
Date Game Date Location Result Property From To
Jan 18 2025 04:30 EST Jan 16 2025 19:00 EST WSH L 0-1 saves 26 25
Date Key Old Value New Value
2025-03-04 Injury Status OUT DAY-TO-DAY
2025-03-01 Injury Status DAY-TO-DAY OUT
2025-02-27 Injury Status OUT DAY-TO-DAY
2025-02-25 injury_note Merilainen was placed in the AHL's concussion protocol Monday, Steve Lloyd of TSN 1200 Ottawa reports.
2025-02-25 analysis Merilainen reportedly told head coach David Bell that he was fine, so it's unclear if he will be an option to face AHL Manitoba on Wednesday. While the netminder's injury won't immediately impact the Senators, it could be an issue if Linus Ullmark or Anton Forsberg gets hurt in the short term.
2025-02-25 Date Injured 2025-02-25
2025-02-25 update Merilainen was placed in the AHL's concussion protocol Monday, Steve Lloyd of TSN 1200 Ottawa reports.
2025-02-25 Injury Status OUT
2025-02-25 Injury Text Concussion
2025-02-25 Injured No Yes
2025-02-02 analysis The Senators kept traffic away from Merilainen, outshooting the Wild 52-16 in the contest. This was Merilainen's third career shutout, all of which have come this season. The 22-year-old has won six of his last eight outings, and he's allowed more than two goals in just one of those contests. Overall, the Finn is 8-3-1 with a 1.99 GAA and a .925 save percentage over 12 games. Linus Ullmark (back) Merilainen has been outstanding for Ottawa, posting an 8-3-1 record, 1.99 GAA and .925 save percentage across 12 outings this season. He earned a 16-save shutout victory over Minnesota on Saturday. However, Linus Ullmark (back) is off injured reserve, so Merilainen was sent to the minors to make room. Anton Forsberg is set to serve as Ullmark's backup.
2025-02-02 update Merilainen posted a 16-save shutout in Saturday's 6-0 win over the Wild. Merilainen was reassigned to AHL Belleville on Sunday.
2025-02-02 analysis Merilainen has been outstanding for Ottawa, posting an 8-3-1 record, 1.99 GAA and .925 save percentage across 12 outings this season. He earned a 16-save shutout victory over Minnesota on Saturday. However, Linus Ullmark (back) is off injured reserve, so Merilainen was sent to the minors to make room. Anton Forsberg is set to serve as Ullmark's understudy. The Senators kept traffic away from Merilainen, outshooting the Wild 52-16 in the contest. This was Merilainen's third career shutout, all of which have come this season. The 22-year-old has won six of his last eight outings, and he's allowed more than two goals in just one of those contests. Overall, the Finn is 8-3-1 with a 1.99 GAA and a .925 save percentage over 12 games. Linus Ullmark (back)
2025-02-02 update Merilainen was reassigned to AHL Belleville on Sunday. Merilainen posted a 16-save shutout in Saturday's 6-0 win over the Wild.
2025-02-02 analysis The Senators kept traffic away from Merilainen, outshooting the Wild 52-16 in the contest. This was Merilainen's third career shutout, all of which have come this season. The 22-year-old has won six of his last eight outings, and he's allowed more than two goals in just one of those contests. Overall, the Finn is 8-3-1 with a 1.99 GAA and a .925 save percentage over 12 games. Linus Ullmark (back) Merilainen has been outstanding for Ottawa, posting an 8-3-1 record, 1.99 GAA and .925 save percentage across 12 outings this season. He earned a 16-save shutout victory over Minnesota on Saturday. However, Linus Ullmark (back) is off injured reserve, so Merilainen was sent to the minors to make room. Anton Forsberg is set to serve as Ullmark's understudy.
2025-02-02 update Merilainen posted a 16-save shutout in Saturday's 6-0 win over the Wild. Merilainen was reassigned to AHL Belleville on Sunday.
2025-02-02 analysis Merilainen was outstanding Sunday, stopping 34 of 35 shots in a 3-1 win over Utah. The victory gave Merilainen a 7-3-1 record to go with a 2.19 GAA and a .921 save percentage. The Wild are averaging 2.94 goals per game, 16th in the NHL. The Senators kept traffic away from Merilainen, outshooting the Wild 52-16 in the contest. This was Merilainen's third career shutout, all of which have come this season. The 22-year-old has won six of his last eight outings, and he's allowed more than two goals in just one of those contests. Overall, the Finn is 8-3-1 with a 1.99 GAA and a .925 save percentage over 12 games. Linus Ullmark (back)
2025-02-02 update Merilainen will patrol the home crease versus Minnesota on Saturday, Bruce Garrioch of Postmedia reports. Merilainen posted a 16-save shutout in Saturday's 6-0 win over the Wild.
2025-02-02 analysis The Senators kept traffic away from Merilianen, outshooting the Wild 52-16 in the contest. This was Merilainen's third career shutout, all of which have come this season. The 22-year-old has won six of his last eight outings, and he's allowed more than two goals in just one of those contests. Overall, the Finn is 8-3-1 with a 1.99 GAA and a .925 save percentage over 12 games. Linus Ullmark (back) Merilainen was outstanding Sunday, stopping 34 of 35 shots in a 3-1 win over Utah. The victory gave Merilainen a 7-3-1 record to go with a 2.19 GAA and a .921 save percentage. The Wild are averaging 2.94 goals per game, 16th in the NHL.
2025-02-02 update Merilainen posted a 16-save shutout in Saturday's 6-0 win over the Wild. Merilainen will patrol the home crease versus Minnesota on Saturday, Bruce Garrioch of Postmedia reports.
2025-02-02 analysis Merilainen was outstanding Sunday, stopping 34 of 35 shots in a 3-1 win over Utah. The victory gave Merilainen a 7-3-1 record to go with a 2.19 GAA and a .921 save percentage. The Wild are averaging 2.94 goals per game, 16th in the NHL. The Senators kept traffic away from Merilianen, outshooting the Wild 52-16 in the contest. This was Merilainen's third career shutout, all of which have come this season. The 22-year-old has won six of his last eight outings, and he's allowed more than two goals in just one of those contests. Overall, the Finn is 8-3-1 with a 1.99 GAA and a .925 save percentage over 12 games. Linus Ullmark (back)
2025-02-02 update Merilainen will patrol the home crease versus Minnesota on Saturday, Bruce Garrioch of Postmedia reports. Merilainen posted a 16-save shutout in Saturday's 6-0 win over the Wild.
2025-02-01 analysis Merilainen was outstanding Sunday, stopping 34 of 35 shots in a 3-1 win over Utah. The victory gave Merilainen a 7-3-1 record to go with a 2.19 GAA and a .921 save percentage. The Wild are averaging 2.94 goals per game, 16th in the NHL.
2025-02-01 update Merilainen will patrol the home crease versus Minnesota on Saturday, Bruce Garrioch of Postmedia reports.
2025-01-27 analysis Merilainen will get the second half of Ottawa's back-to-back after Anton Forsberg played in Saturday's 2-1 win over Toronto. The 22-year-old Merilainen has a 6-3-1 record with two shutouts, a 2.32 GAA and a .914 save percentage through 10 NHL appearances this season. Utah sits 21st in the league with 2.88 goals per game in 2024-25. Merilainen allowed a second-period goal to Clayton Keller, one of the hottest players in the NHL over the last two weeks, but he was excellent the rest of the way. The 22-year-old has won five of his last seven starts, going 5-1-1 with a 1.69 GAA and a .940 save percentage over that span. He's expected to remain the top option between the pipes for Ottawa as long as Linus Ullmark (back) remains ou
2025-01-27 update Merilainen will protect the home net against Utah on Sunday, TSN 1200 Ottawa reports. Merilainen stopped 34 of 35 shots in Sunday's 3-1 win over Utah.
2025-01-27 analysis Merilainen allowed a second-period goal to Clayton Keller, one of the hottest players in the NHL over the last two weeks, but he was excellent the rest of the way. The 22-year-old has won five of his last seven starts, going 5-1-1 with a 1.69 GAA and a .940 save percentage over that span. He's expected to remain the top option between the pipes for Ottawa as long as Linus Ullmark (back) remains ou Merilainen will get the second half of Ottawa's back-to-back after Anton Forsberg played in Saturday's 2-1 win over Toronto. The 22-year-old Merilainen has a 6-3-1 record with two shutouts, a 2.32 GAA and a .914 save percentage through 10 NHL appearances this season. Utah sits 21st in the league with 2.88 goals per game in 2024-25.
2025-01-27 update Merilainen stopped 34 of 35 shots in Sunday's 3-1 win over Utah. Merilainen will protect the home net against Utah on Sunday, TSN 1200 Ottawa reports.
2025-01-27 analysis Merilainen will get the second half of Ottawa's back-to-back after Anton Forsberg played in Saturday's 2-1 win over Toronto. The 22-year-old Merilainen has a 6-3-1 record with two shutouts, a 2.32 GAA and a .914 save percentage through 10 NHL appearances this season. Utah sits 21st in the league with 2.88 goals per game in 2024-25. Merilainen allowed a second-period goal to Clayton Keller, one of the hottest players in the NHL over the last two weeks, but he was excellent the rest of the way. The 22-year-old has won five of his last seven starts, going 5-1-1 with a 1.69 GAA and a .940 save percentage over that span. He's expected to remain the top option between the pipes for Ottawa as long as Linus Ullmark (back) remains ou
2025-01-27 update Merilainen will protect the home net against Utah on Sunday, TSN 1200 Ottawa reports. Merilainen stopped 34 of 35 shots in Sunday's 3-1 win over Utah.
2025-01-26 analysis Merilainen will get the second half of Ottawa's back-to-back after Anton Forsberg played in Saturday's 2-1 win over Toronto. The 22-year-old Merilainen has a 6-3-1 record with two shutouts, a 2.32 GAA and a .914 save percentage through 10 NHL appearances this season. Utah sits 21st in the league with 2.88 goals per game in 2024-25.
2025-01-26 update Merilainen will protect the home net against Utah on Sunday, TSN 1200 Ottawa reports.
2025-01-22 analysis Merilainen had his worst outing of the season Saturday, conceding five goals on 28 shots, but he still came out with a win in a high-scoring affair against Boston. The Finnish netminder has only lost twice in regulation through nine outings in 2024-25, turning in two shutouts over those appearances. The Rangers are coming off a 5-4 overtime loss to Montreal on Sunday. Merilainen allowed two goals on 16 shots before he was replaced by Anton Forsberg at the 4:59 mark of the second period. This was Merilainen's first loss in regulation since Jan. 2, when he gave up four goals in a 4-2 loss to the Stars. The 22-year-old netminder has done a good job as the Senators' first-choice goaltender in recent weeks. He's gone 4-2-1 with a 2.17 GAA and a .920 save percentage
2025-01-22 update Merilainen will defend the road cage Tuesday versus the Rangers, according to TSN 1200 Ottawa. Merilainen stopped 14 of 16 shots before being pulled in Tuesday's 5-0 loss to the Rangers.
2025-01-21 analysis Merilainen had his worst outing of the season Saturday, conceding five goals on 28 shots, but he still came out with a win in a high-scoring affair against Boston. The Finnish netminder has only lost twice in regulation through nine outings in 2024-25, turning in two shutouts over those appearances. The Rangers are coming off a 5-4 overtime loss to Montreal on Sunday.
2025-01-21 update Merilainen will defend the road cage Tuesday versus the Rangers, according to TSN 1200 Ottawa.
2025-01-19 analysis The Senators out-shot the visitors 44-28, but Merilainen allowed a career-high five goals and needed some late heroics from Josh Norris at the end of the third period just to force OT. The 22-year-old netminder redeemed himself in extra time however, denying Charlie Coyle, David Pastrnak and Pavel Zacha in the shootout to secure the victory. Merilainen's time in the NHL could be coming to an end f The Senators out-shot the visitors 44-28, but Merilainen allowed a career-high five goals and needed some late heroics from Josh Norris at the end of the third period just to force OT. The 22-year-old netminder redeemed himself in the shootout, denying Charlie Coyle, David Pastrnak and Pavel Zacha to secure the victory. Merilainen's time in the NHL could be coming to an end for now with Linus Ullm
2025-01-19 analysis It will be Merilainen's fifth straight start, and it's not hard to see why Ottawa keeps going back to him. He's posted a 3-0-1 record, 0.74 GAA and .971 save percentage over that stretch, which gives him a 5-2-1 record with a 1.84 GAA and a .930 save percentage in eight outings this season. If Merilainen keeps playing like this, he might stick with the NHL squad even after Linus Ullmark (back) ret The Senators out-shot the visitors 44-28, but Merilainen allowed a career-high five goals and needed some late heroics from Josh Norris at the end of the third period just to force OT. The 22-year-old netminder redeemed himself in extra time however, denying Charlie Coyle, David Pastrnak and Pavel Zacha in the shootout to secure the victory. Merilainen's time in the NHL could be coming to an end f
2025-01-19 update Merilainen is expected to start at home against Boston on Saturday, according to TSN 1200 Ottawa. Merilainen turned aside 23 shots in regulation and overtime and all three shootout attempts he faced in Saturday's 6-5 win over the Bruins.
2025-01-18 analysis It will be Merilainen's fifth straight start, and it's not hard to see why Ottawa keeps going back to him. He's posted a 3-0-1 record, 0.74 GAA and .971 save percentage over that stretch, which gives him a 5-2-1 record with a 1.84 GAA and a .930 save percentage in eight outings this season. If Merilainen keeps playing like this, he might stick with the NHL squad even after Linus Ullmark (back) ret
2025-01-18 update Merilainen is expected to start at home against Boston on Saturday, according to TSN 1200 Ottawa.
2025-01-17 analysis Merilainen will make his fourth consecutive start after posting an impressive 3-0-0 record, 0.67 GAA and two shutouts in his previous three tilts. With the 22-year-old backstop going Thursday, the team could decide to give Anton Forsberg the first game of a back-to-back against the Bruins on Saturday while saving Merilainen to face New Jersey on Sunday. Either way, Merilainen should continue to se Merilainen stood tall against the vaunted Capitals before surrendering Alex Ovechkin's 874th career goal in overtime. The 22-year-old Finn looks to have edged out Anton Forsberg as the replacement for Linus Ullmark (back) while the latter is on the injured list, so fantasy managers should consider adding Merilainen if he's still available.
2025-01-17 update Merilainen will tend the twine for Thursday's home matchup with Washington, Graeme Nichols of The Hockey News reports. Merilainen turned aside 27 of 28 shots faced during Thursday's 1-0 home loss to the Capitals.
2025-01-17 analysis Merilainen stood tall against the vaunted Capitals before surrendering Alex Ovechkin's 874th career goal in overtime. The 22-year-old Finn looks to have edged out Anton Forsberg as the replacement for Linus Ullmark (back) while the latter is on the injured list, so fantasy managers should consider adding Merilainen if he's still available. Merilainen will make his fourth consecutive start after posting an impressive 3-0-0 record, 0.67 GAA and two shutouts in his previous three tilts. With the 22-year-old backstop going Thursday, the team could decide to give Anton Forsberg the first game of a back-to-back against the Bruins on Saturday while saving Merilainen to face New Jersey on Sunday. Either way, Merilainen should continue to se
2025-01-17 update Merilainen turned aside 27 of 28 shots faced during Thursday's 1-0 home loss to the Capitals. Merilainen will tend the twine for Thursday's home matchup with Washington, Graeme Nichols of The Hockey News reports.
2025-01-17 analysis Merilainen will make his fourth consecutive start after posting an impressive 3-0-0 record, 0.67 GAA and two shutouts in his previous three tilts. With the 22-year-old backstop going Thursday, the team could decide to give Anton Forsberg the first game of a back-to-back against the Bruins on Saturday while saving Merilainen to face New Jersey on Sunday. Either way, Merilainen should continue to se Merilainen stood tall against the vaunted Capitals before surrendering Alex Ovechkin's 874th career goal in overtime. The 22-year-old Finn looks to have edged out Anton Forsberg as the replacement for Linus Ullmark (back) while the latter is on the injured list, so fantasy managers should consider adding Merilainen if he's still available.
2025-01-17 update Merilainen will tend the twine for Thursday's home matchup with Washington, Graeme Nichols of The Hockey News reports. Merilainen turned aside 27 of 28 shots faced during Thursday's 1-0 home loss to the Capitals.
2025-01-17 analysis Merilainen stood tall against the vaunted Capitals before surrendering Alex Ovechkin's 874th career goal in overtime. The 22-year-old Finn looks to have edged out Anton Forsberg as the replacement for Linus Ullmark (back) while the latter is on the injured list, so fantasy managers should consider adding Merilainen if he's still available. Merilainen will make his fourth consecutive start after posting an impressive 3-0-0 record, 0.67 GAA and two shutouts in his previous three tilts. With the 22-year-old backstop going Thursday, the team could decide to give Anton Forsberg the first game of a back-to-back against the Bruins on Saturday while saving Merilainen to face New Jersey on Sunday. Either way, Merilainen should continue to se
2025-01-17 update Merilainen turned aside 27 of 28 shots faced during Thursday's 1-0 home loss to the Capitals. Merilainen will tend the twine for Thursday's home matchup with Washington, Graeme Nichols of The Hockey News reports.
2025-01-16 analysis Merilainen will make his fourth consecutive start after posting an impressive 3-0-0 record, 0.67 GAA and two shutouts in his previous three tilts. With the 22-year-old backstop going Thursday, the team could decide to give Anton Forsberg the first game of a back-to-back against the Bruins on Saturday while saving Merilainen to face New Jersey on Sunday. Either way, Merilainen should continue to se Merilainen stood tall against the vaunted Capitals before surrendering Alex Ovechkin's 874th career goal in overtime. The 22-year-old Finn looks to have edged out Anton Forsberg as the replacement for Linus Ullmark (back) while the latter is on the injured list, so fantasy managers should consider adding Merilainen if he's still available.
2025-01-16 update Merilainen will tend the twine for Thursday's home matchup with Washington, Graeme Nichols of The Hockey News reports. Merilainen turned aside 27 of 28 shots faced during Thursday's 1-0 home loss to the Capitals.
2025-01-16 analysis All of a sudden, the 22-year-old rookie might be the hottest goalie in the NHL. Merilainen has started three straight games and won all three, with two of those outings producing his first two career shutouts. In seven outings since he was called up in mid-December, he's gone 5-2-0 with a 1.98 GAA and .925 save percentage, and the Senators appear willing to give him a shot at taking the No. 1 job Merilainen will make his fourth consecutive start after posting an impressive 3-0-0 record, 0.67 GAA and two shutouts in his previous three tilts. With the 22-year-old backstop going Thursday, the team could decide to give Anton Forsberg the first game of a back-to-back against the Bruins on Saturday while saving Merilainen to face New Jersey on Sunday. Either way, Merilainen should continue to se
2025-01-16 update Merilainen made 24 saves in Tuesday's 2-0 win over the Islanders. Merilainen will tend the twine for Thursday's home matchup with Washington, Graeme Nichols of The Hockey News reports.
2025-01-15 analysis After conceding four goals in a loss to Dallas in his first start in January, Merilainen has won back-to-back games, including a 29-save shutout over Pittsburgh on Saturday. The Islanders are tied for 26th in the league with 2.67 goals per game, but they've played better recently, having gone 3-0-0 on their most recent road trip. All of a sudden, the 22-year-old rookie might be the hottest goalie in the NHL. Merilainen has started three straight games and won all three, with two of those outings producing his first two career shutouts. In seven outings since he was called up in mid-December, he's gone 5-2-0 with a 1.98 GAA and .925 save percentage, and the Senators appear willing to give him a shot at taking the No. 1 job
2025-01-15 update Merilainen will defend the road cage Tuesday versus the Islanders, according to TSN 1200 Ottawa. Merilainen made 24 saves in Tuesday's 2-0 win over the Islanders.
2025-01-15 Salary Cap Hit $0.000M $0.000M
2025-01-15 Salary $0.000M $0.000M
2025-01-15 Injury Status
2025-01-14 analysis After conceding four goals in a loss to Dallas in his first start in January, Merilainen has won back-to-back games, including a 29-save shutout over Pittsburgh on Saturday. The Islanders are tied for 26th in the league with 2.67 goals per game, but they've played better recently, having gone 3-0-0 on their most recent road trip.
2025-01-14 update Merilainen will defend the road cage Tuesday versus the Islanders, according to TSN 1200 Ottawa.
2025-01-13 analysis Merilainen will play again after posting a 29-save shutout win against Pittsburgh on Saturday. He has a 3-2-0 record with a 2.42 GAA and a .911 save percentage across five NHL outings this season. Dallas ranks 10th in the league with 3.22 goals per game in 2024-25. Merilainen started both halves of a back-to-back this weekend and won both games. It's telling that the Senators trusted a 22-year-old goalie, making just his eighth career appearance, more than Anton Forsberg despite the crowded part of the schedule. Merilainen has delivered when called upon this season, going 4-2-0 with a 2.34 GAA and a .913 save percentage while often facing moderately tough op
2025-01-13 update Merilainen will patrol the home crease versus Dallas on Sunday, per TSN 1200 Ottawa. Merilainen stopped 24 of 26 shots in Sunday's 3-2 win over the Stars.
2025-01-13 analysis Merilainen started both halves of a back-to-back this weekend and won both games. It's telling that the Senators trusted a 22-year-old goalie, making just his eighth career appearance, more than Anton Forsberg despite the crowded part of the schedule. Merilainen has delivered when called upon this season, going 4-2-0 with a 2.34 GAA and a .913 save percentage while often facing moderately tough op Merilainen will play again after posting a 29-save shutout win against Pittsburgh on Saturday. He has a 3-2-0 record with a 2.42 GAA and a .911 save percentage across five NHL outings this season. Dallas ranks 10th in the league with 3.22 goals per game in 2024-25.
2025-01-13 update Merilainen stopped 24 of 26 shots in Sunday's 3-2 win over the Stars. Merilainen will patrol the home crease versus Dallas on Sunday, per TSN 1200 Ottawa.
2025-01-13 analysis Merilainen will play again after posting a 29-save shutout win against Pittsburgh on Saturday. He has a 3-2-0 record with a 2.42 GAA and a .911 save percentage across five NHL outings this season. Dallas ranks 10th in the league with 3.22 goals per game in 2024-25. Merilainen started both halves of a back-to-back this weekend and won both games. It's telling that the Senators trusted a 22-year-old goalie, making just his eighth career appearance, more than Anton Forsberg despite the crowded part of the schedule. Merilainen has delivered when called upon this season, going 4-2-0 with a 2.34 GAA and a .913 save percentage while often facing moderately tough op
2025-01-13 update Merilainen will patrol the home crease versus Dallas on Sunday, per TSN 1200 Ottawa. Merilainen stopped 24 of 26 shots in Sunday's 3-2 win over the Stars.
2025-01-13 analysis Ottawa scored three times in the first period, so the only real suspense in the game came from whether Merilainen would be able to secure his first NHL shutout. The 22-year-old has played well overall since making his season debut in late December, going 3-2-0 in five outings with a 2.42 GAA and .911 save percentage. With Linus Ullmark (back) still lacking a timeline for his return, Merilainen sho Merilainen will play again after posting a 29-save shutout win against Pittsburgh on Saturday. He has a 3-2-0 record with a 2.42 GAA and a .911 save percentage across five NHL outings this season. Dallas ranks 10th in the league with 3.22 goals per game in 2024-25.
2025-01-13 update Merilainen made 29 saves in Saturday's 5-0 win over the Penguins. Merilainen will patrol the home crease versus Dallas on Sunday, per TSN 1200 Ottawa.
2025-01-13 analysis Merilainen started both halves of a back-to-back this weekend and won both games. It's telling that the Senators trusted a 22-year-old goalie, making just his eighth career appearance, more than Anton Forsberg despite the crowded part of the schedule. Merilainen has delivered when called upon this season, going 4-2-0 with a 2.34 GAA and a .913 save percentage while often facing moderately tough op Ottawa scored three times in the first period, so the only real suspense in the game came from whether Merilainen would be able to secure his first NHL shutout. The 22-year-old has played well overall since making his season debut in late December, going 3-2-0 in five outings with a 2.42 GAA and .911 save percentage. With Linus Ullmark (back) still lacking a timeline for his return, Merilainen sho
2025-01-13 update Merilainen stopped 24 of 26 shots in Sunday's 3-2 win over the Stars. Merilainen made 29 saves in Saturday's 5-0 win over the Penguins.
2025-01-13 analysis Merilainen will play again after posting a 29-save shutout win against Pittsburgh on Saturday. He has a 3-2-0 record with a 2.42 GAA and a .911 save percentage across five NHL outings this season. Dallas ranks 10th in the league with 3.22 goals per game in 2024-25. Merilainen started both halves of a back-to-back this weekend and won both games. It's telling that the Senators trusted a 22-year-old goalie, making just his eighth career appearance, more than Anton Forsberg despite the crowded part of the schedule. Merilainen has delivered when called upon this season, going 4-2-0 with a 2.34 GAA and a .913 save percentage while often facing moderately tough op
2025-01-13 update Merilainen will patrol the home crease versus Dallas on Sunday, per TSN 1200 Ottawa. Merilainen stopped 24 of 26 shots in Sunday's 3-2 win over the Stars.
2025-01-13 analysis Ottawa scored three times in the first period, so the only real suspense in the game came from whether Merilainen would be able to secure his first NHL shutout. The 22-year-old has played well overall since making his season debut in late December, going 3-2-0 in five outings with a 2.42 GAA and .911 save percentage. With Linus Ullmark (back) still lacking a timeline for his return, Merilainen sho Merilainen will play again after posting a 29-save shutout win against Pittsburgh on Saturday. He has a 3-2-0 record with a 2.42 GAA and a .911 save percentage across five NHL outings this season. Dallas ranks 10th in the league with 3.22 goals per game in 2024-25.
2025-01-13 update Merilainen made 29 saves in Saturday's 5-0 win over the Penguins. Merilainen will patrol the home crease versus Dallas on Sunday, per TSN 1200 Ottawa.
2025-01-13 analysis Merilainen will play again after posting a 29-save shutout win against Pittsburgh on Saturday. He has a 3-2-0 record with a 2.42 GAA and a .911 save percentage across five NHL outings this season. Dallas ranks 10th in the league with 3.22 goals per game in 2024-25. Ottawa scored three times in the first period, so the only real suspense in the game came from whether Merilainen would be able to secure his first NHL shutout. The 22-year-old has played well overall since making his season debut in late December, going 3-2-0 in five outings with a 2.42 GAA and .911 save percentage. With Linus Ullmark (back) still lacking a timeline for his return, Merilainen sho
2025-01-13 update Merilainen will patrol the home crease versus Dallas on Sunday, per TSN 1200 Ottawa. Merilainen made 29 saves in Saturday's 5-0 win over the Penguins.
2025-01-12 analysis Ottawa scored three times in the first period, so the only real suspense in the game came from whether Merilainen would be able to secure his first NHL shutout. The 22-year-old has played well overall since making his season debut in late December, going 3-2-0 in five outings with a 2.42 GAA and .911 save percentage. With Linus Ullmark (back) still lacking a timeline for his return, Merilainen sho Merilainen will play again after posting a 29-save shutout win against Pittsburgh on Saturday. He has a 3-2-0 record with a 2.42 GAA and a .911 save percentage across five NHL outings this season. Dallas ranks 10th in the league with 3.22 goals per game in 2024-25.
2025-01-12 update Merilainen made 29 saves in Saturday's 5-0 win over the Penguins. Merilainen will patrol the home crease versus Dallas on Sunday, per TSN 1200 Ottawa.
2025-01-12 analysis Merilainen has allowed 11 goals on 95 shots en route to a 2-2-0 record in four NHL appearances this season. He surrendered four goals on 25 shots to Dallas on Jan. 2 in a 4-2 loss during his last outing. Pittsburgh ranks 14th in the league with 3.07 goals per game in 2024-25. Ottawa scored three times in the first period, so the only real suspense in the game came from whether Merilainen would be able to secure his first NHL shutout. The 22-year-old has played well overall since making his season debut in late December, going 3-2-0 in five outings with a 2.42 GAA and .911 save percentage. With Linus Ullmark (back) still lacking a timeline for his return, Merilainen sho
2025-01-12 update Merilainen will guard the road goal versus the Penguins on Saturday, according to Bruce Garrioch of Postmedia. Merilainen made 29 saves in Saturday's 5-0 win over the Penguins.
2025-01-11 analysis Merilainen has allowed 11 goals on 95 shots en route to a 2-2-0 record in four NHL appearances this season. He surrendered four goals on 25 shots to Dallas on Jan. 2 in a 4-2 loss during his last outing. Pittsburgh ranks 14th in the league with 3.07 goals per game in 2024-25.
2025-01-11 update Merilainen will guard the road goal versus the Penguins on Saturday, according to Bruce Garrioch of Postmedia.
2025-01-03 analysis Merilainen has been inconsistent over his last few appearances, going 2-1-0 with a 2.68 GAA and .900 save percentage across his last three outings. Although he'll draw the start for the third time in the Senators' last five games, head coach Travis Green said that Anton Forsberg (lower body) will dress as the backup for Thursday's matchup, so Merilainen's opportunities will likely decrease soon. It was a tough night for Merilainen, who had won both of his starts so far this season. But his mates mustered just 13 shots on Jake Oettinger at the other end of the ice, and no goalie can win with that little effort from his teammates. Anton Forsberg, who hadn't dressed for six games due to a lower-body injury, returned as his backup and will likely get the team's next start.
2025-01-03 update Merilainen will tend the twine for Thursday's road game against Dallas, TSN 1200 Ottawa reports. Merilainen made 21 saves in a 4-2 loss to Dallas on Thursday.
2025-01-03 analysis It was a tough night for Merilainen, who had won both of his starts so far this season. But his mates mustered just 13 shots on Jake Oettinger at the other end of the ice, and no goalie can win with that little effort from his teammates. Anton Forsberg, who hadn't dressed for six games due to a lower-body injury, returned as his backup and will likely get the team's next start. Merilainen has been inconsistent over his last few appearances, going 2-1-0 with a 2.68 GAA and .900 save percentage across his last three outings. Although he'll draw the start for the third time in the Senators' last five games, head coach Travis Green said that Anton Forsberg (lower body) will dress as the backup for Thursday's matchup, so Merilainen's opportunities will likely decrease soon.
2025-01-03 update Merilainen made 21 saves in a 4-2 loss to Dallas on Thursday. Merilainen will tend the twine for Thursday's road game against Dallas, TSN 1200 Ottawa reports.
2025-01-03 analysis Merilainen has been inconsistent over his last few appearances, going 2-1-0 with a 2.68 GAA and .900 save percentage across his last three outings. Although he'll draw the start for the third time in the Senators' last five games, head coach Travis Green said that Anton Forsberg (lower body) will dress as the backup for Thursday's matchup, so Merilainen's opportunities will likely decrease soon. It was a tough night for Merilainen, who had won both of his starts so far this season. But his mates mustered just 13 shots on Jake Oettinger at the other end of the ice, and no goalie can win with that little effort from his teammates. Anton Forsberg, who hadn't dressed for six games due to a lower-body injury, returned as his backup and will likely get the team's next start.
2025-01-03 update Merilainen will tend the twine for Thursday's road game against Dallas, TSN 1200 Ottawa reports. Merilainen made 21 saves in a 4-2 loss to Dallas on Thursday.
2025-01-02 analysis Merilainen has been inconsistent over his last few appearances, going 2-1-0 with a 2.68 GAA and .900 save percentage across his last three outings. Although he'll draw the start for the third time in the Senators' last five games, head coach Travis Green said that Anton Forsberg (lower body) will dress as the backup for Thursday's matchup, so Merilainen's opportunities will likely decrease soon.
2025-01-02 update Merilainen will tend the twine for Thursday's road game against Dallas, TSN 1200 Ottawa reports.
2024-12-30 analysis Merilainen stopped 12 of 14 shots in 36:39 of ice time last Sunday and was charged for the loss in the 3-1 defeat to Edmonton. He also has turned aside 21 of 25 shots in a 5-4 overtime victory over Vancouver this campaign. The Wild have an impressive 22-10-4 record, though they are middling in terms of goals per game, tying for 20th with 2.94. Merilainen has made three appearances this season and has posted a solid 2-1-0 record while giving up two of fewer goals in two of those outings. His save percentage isn't very high since he posted a figure below the .860 mark in his first two outings, though, so the sample is too small to assess what he might bring to the table. However, this was certainly an improved effort compared to his previ
2024-12-30 update Merilainen is set to start on the road against Minnesota on Sunday, per TSN 1200 Ottawa. Merilainen stopped 30 of 31 shots in Sunday's 3-1 win over Minnesota.
2024-12-29 analysis Merilainen stopped 12 of 14 shots in 36:39 of ice time last Sunday and was charged for the loss in the 3-1 defeat to Edmonton. He also has turned aside 21 of 25 shots in a 5-4 overtime victory over Vancouver this campaign. The Wild have an impressive 22-10-4 record, though they are middling in terms of goals per game, tying for 20th with 2.94.
2024-12-29 update Merilainen is set to start on the road against Minnesota on Sunday, per TSN 1200 Ottawa.
2024-12-27 analysis Merilainen has started the last two games, as Linus Ullmark (back) and Anton Forsberg (undisclosed) have both been out of action. Merilainen is 1-1-0 this season, allowing six goals on 39 shots. He could get another start in Winnipeg on Saturday if Ullmark and Forsberg are both unable to go.
2024-12-27 update Merilainen was called up from AHL Belleville on Friday.
2024-12-23 analysis The Senators tied the game at 1-1 early in the second period, but Merilainen gave up goals to Zach Hyman and Adam Henrique en route to taking the loss in his relief appearance. With due respect to the 22-year-old Merilainen, Ullmark's injury has put the Senators' goaltending depth in a worst-case scenario -- Anton Forsberg (undisclosed) is also out, and the team is on its longest road trip of the Merilainen entered Sunday's game against the Oilers at the start of the second period after Linus Ullmark (upper body) exited the matchup. Merilainen took the loss in the relief appearance and will head to the minors ahead of the NHL's Christmas break, which could signal that Ullmark or Anton Forsberg (undisclosed) could return to action following the layoff.
2024-12-23 update Merilainen stopped 12 of 14 shots in relief of Linus Ullmark (upper body) in Sunday's 3-1 loss to the Oilers. Merilainen was loaned to AHL Belleville on Monday.
2024-12-23 analysis Merilainen entered Sunday's game against the Oilers at the start of the second period after Linus Ullmark (upper body) exited the matchup. Merilainen took the loss in the relief appearance and will head to the minors ahead of the NHL's Christmas break, which could signal that Ullmark or Anton Forsberg (undisclosed) could return to action following the layoff. The Senators tied the game at 1-1 early in the second period, but Merilainen gave up goals to Zach Hyman and Adam Henrique en route to taking the loss in his relief appearance. With due respect to the 22-year-old Merilainen, Ullmark's injury has put the Senators' goaltending depth in a worst-case scenario -- Anton Forsberg (undisclosed) is also out, and the team is on its longest road trip of the
2024-12-23 update Merilainen was loaned to AHL Belleville on Monday. Merilainen stopped 12 of 14 shots in relief of Linus Ullmark (upper body) in Sunday's 3-1 loss to the Oilers.