The Ottawa Senators have aggressively pursued Linus Ullmark and may be the frontrunners for the former Vezina Trophy winner.

According to Elliotte Friedman of the 32 TP, the Ottawa/Boston discussions about moving the goaltender have been meaningful.

But before the deal moves forward, it appears the Senators want reassurance and a long-term deal in place prior to making the trade happen:

Elliotte Friedman on the 32 Thoughts Podcast confirmed the OTT/BOS discussions are very real, and it's gotten to the point where OTT wants an extension in place before paying the price Boston is asking for… #nhlbruins

We all know the price for goalies has been a premium lately, giving how much the Calgary Flames received in return for Jacob Markstrom, with a 1st-round pick attached, with defenseman Kevin Bahl.

Of course for the 2022-2023 Vezina winner, the Bruins want to secure a 1st round pick, given how Markstrom's trade set the market.

But GM Don Sweeney will have to work his magic to get Ullmark extended, as his $5 Million AAV contract will be ending in 2024-2025.

So in order to keep the team's future rolling, Sweeney not only has to find a way to make a stubborn goalie happy, but possibly waive his NTC if the Senators are indeed on that 16-team list.

Ullmark finished the 2022-2023 season with 49 Games played, a 1.89 GAA, and a .938 save percentage.

And in 2023-2024, Ullmark played 40 games with the Bruins, with a 2.58 GAA and .915 save percentage.

For now, we will watch as this story develops.