Linus Ullmark Expresses Gratitude for Overwhelming Support from Bruins Fans as He Returns to Boston
Boston Bruins goaltender Linus Ullmark has always been known for his cool demeanor and impressive performances between the pipes, but after his remarkable return to TD Garden on Sunday, it’s his heartfelt appreciation for the passionate Bruins fanbase that is making headlines. Ullmark, who was instrumental in Boston’s successful regular season last year and a standout during their playoff run, took to social media and post-game interviews to express his gratitude for the overwhelming love and support he has received since his arrival in Boston.
The Swedish netminder, who joined the Bruins in 2021 as part of a high-profile free-agent signing, has quickly become a fan favorite. However, his relationship with the Boston faithful hit new heights after he was met with a standing ovation when he took the ice for his first game back in Boston following an off-season of uncertainty and change. Fans filled TD Garden with chants of “Ullmark! Ullmark!”—a testament to the deep affection Bruins supporters have developed for the goalie who helped them earn a historic 2023 regular-season finish.
For Ullmark, the outpouring of admiration left him both humbled and grateful.
“I’ve been around the league for a while now, but the support I’ve received in Boston has been something special,” Ullmark said after the game, his voice filled with emotion. “The fans here have been unbelievable, not just this season, but from day one. Coming back to this city and hearing them chant my name, it’s just overwhelming. I feel incredibly fortunate to be a part of this team and this community. It’s a bond I’ll cherish forever.”
Ullmark’s performance last season solidified his status as one of the NHL’s elite goaltenders. He recorded a career-high 40 wins, posted a .917 save percentage, and was instrumental in helping the Bruins achieve a historic 135-point regular season record. Despite his stellar regular-season play, the team’s early playoff exit was a bitter disappointment, and questions swirled in the offseason about how the team would bounce back. Yet, Ullmark never wavered in his commitment to Boston, and as the 2024 season unfolds, his stellar performances have only reaffirmed the trust the team—and the fans—have placed in him.
“I’m really thankful for the way they’ve embraced me since day one,” Ullmark continued. “But it’s not just about the on-ice stuff. It’s the way the community connects with the players. I’ll never forget my first game here and the incredible reception I got. It feels like home now, and it makes playing here so much more special.”
Ullmark’s rise to stardom in Boston was not without challenges. After spending several seasons with the Buffalo Sabres, where he was often the lone bright spot in an otherwise struggling team, Ullmark came to Boston with something to prove. He had big shoes to fill, following in the footsteps of the beloved Tuukka Rask, who retired just before Ullmark’s arrival.
Yet, the Swedish goalie quickly found his stride, earning respect for his consistency, his leadership in the crease, and his easy-going personality off the ice. His performance in the 2023 season, which saw him claim the starting job and lead the team through a record-breaking campaign, endeared him to a fanbase that was already used to excellence in the goaltending position.
The goalie’s continued success this season has been a source of pride for Bruins fans. Through 14 games so far in the 2024-2025 season, Ullmark has posted a .920 save percentage and is among the league leaders in goals-against average. His calm, composed style in net has helped stabilize a Bruins team that has had to navigate changes to its roster and some early-season injuries.
A Win for the Fans and the Team
After Ullmark’s heartfelt words following his return to TD Garden, his teammates also took a moment to reflect on the connection between the goalie and the fans. Team captain Patrice Bergeron, who has been with the team for over 20 years, praised Ullmark for his ability to bond with the fanbase, saying that his calm demeanor and humility off the ice make him an easy person to root for.
“Linus is such a down-to-earth guy,” Bergeron said. “He doesn’t let the spotlight distract him. He’s focused on doing his job, but at the same time, he truly appreciates what the fans bring. He’s an important part of the fabric of this team and this community. We’ve seen it from day one, and it’s amazing to see that love and respect reciprocated.”
Ullmark’s emotional connection with the fans is also reflected in his interactions with them beyond the rink. He’s been active in community events, including youth hockey clinics, charity events, and local hospital visits, further solidifying his role as a beloved figure in Boston. For Ullmark, giving back to the community that has supported him is a priority.
“I don’t take any of this for granted,” Ullmark said, his eyes scanning the stands after the game. “I’m just one person on this team, and there’s so much love here. The Bruins fans are incredible, and I want to be someone they can look up to—not just for what I do on the ice, but for what I do off of it.”
As the Bruins continue their season with high hopes for a deep playoff run, it’s clear that Ullmark’s relationship with the city and the fans will only grow stronger. The love and respect that the Boston faithful have for the goalie is evident every time he steps onto the ice, and it’s clear that Ullmark’s appreciation for the fans is reciprocated tenfold.
“I’m just thankful,” Ullmark concluded. “Thankful for my teammates, thankful for the fans, and thankful to be here. It’s been an amazing ride so far, and I can’t wait to see where it goes.”
The Bruins’ success this season may hinge on many factors, but one thing is certain: with Linus Ullmark in net, Boston fans have a goalie they can truly call their own.
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