Senators Ink James Reimer to $850,000 Contract for 2025-26 Season

The Ottawa Senators have officially signed goaltender James Reimer to a one-year contract valued at $850,000 for the remainder of the 2025-26 NHL season. This decision follows Reimer’s recent performance, where he allowed six goals on 28 shots during a 6-5 overtime loss with the Senators’ minor-league affiliate, the Belleville Senators, while on a professional tryout contract.

On January 12, 2026, Reimer participated in practice with the Senators, sharing the ice with goaltenders Leevi Meriläinen and Hunter Shepard. The Senators’ regular goaltender, Linus Ullmark, was present at the Canadian Tire Centre but did not participate in the practice session. The timeline for Reimer’s return to regular play remains uncertain.

Before joining the Senators, Reimer represented Team Canada at the Spengler Cup and had skated with a Swiss team, Rapperswil-Jona, prior to the tournament. Earlier in the season, he was with the Toronto Maple Leafs on a professional tryout but has not played in an NHL game since last season, when he was with the Buffalo Sabres. Last season, he split time between the Sabres and the Anaheim Ducks, concluding the year with a record of 10-10-2, a save percentage of .896, and a goals-against average of 3.04 across 24 appearances.

“I’m feeling pretty good,” Reimer stated after practice, emphasizing the importance of a gradual return. “Honestly, it’s kind of a day-by-day process. I’ve been staying in shape. Condition-wise, I feel pretty good. Obviously, going over to Europe for a bit and playing the Spengler Cup helped. I got some pro games and faced some pro shooters. I feel like my game has come along.”

Despite his positive outlook, there remains ambiguity regarding when he will make his debut for the Senators. Travis Green, head coach of the Senators, addressed this uncertainty during a media session, stating, “I’m not going to put a time on it. We’ll see from a day-to-day perspective how it goes and how he feels. (Goaltending coach Justin Peters) will play a big part in making that call. We’ll see where it goes.”

As the Senators continue their season, the addition of Reimer potentially addresses their goaltending needs, but fans and analysts alike will be watching closely for updates on his readiness to contribute in games.