Senators’ Linus Ullmark to return vs. Lightning

Linus Ullmark will make his first start since Dec. 22 on Tuesday night in Tampa Bay against the Lightning.

Ullmark left a Dec. 22 against the Edmonton Oilers with upper-body tightness during the third period. He has been listed as week-to-week ever since.

Anton Forsberg started Monday in a win over Nashville.

The Senators sent goalie Leevi Merilainen back down to the Bellville Senators of the American Hockey League on Sunday.

Ottawa has thrived despite the absence of Ullmark. The Senators carry a five-game win streak into Tuesday’s game.

Ullmark is 12-7-2 with a 2.38 goals-against average and .915 save percentage this season.