Ottawa Senators Extend Goaltender Leevi Merilainen's Contract for 2026-27 Season
The Ottawa Senators have recently extended goaltender Leevi Merilainen's contract for the 2026-27 season. The one-year, one-way deal is valued at $1.1 million. Merilainen had a mixed season in 2025-26, playing for both Ottawa and AHL Belleville. In his 20 games with Ottawa, he posted an .860 save percentage and a 3.51 goals-against average, finishing with an 8-10-1 record. During his time with Belleville, he recorded a .909 save percentage, a 2.77 GAA, and an 8-8-1 record. Merilainen, a third-round pick by the Senators in the 2020 NHL Draft, also won a silver medal with Finland at the 2022 World Juniors.
The Ottawa Senators have shown confidence in Leevi Merilainen by extending his contract for the upcoming season. Despite facing challenges during the previous season, Merilainen has demonstrated his potential as a goaltender. With his experience playing for both Ottawa and AHL Belleville, he has shown versatility and skill in the net. As a third-round pick in the 2020 NHL Draft, Merilainen has continued to develop and showcase his abilities on the ice. The extension of his contract reflects the Senators' belief in his talent and potential for the future.