Leevi Merilainen

Leevi Merilainen struggled in his season debut Wednesday, allowing seven goals on 26 shots in an 8-4 loss to the Sabres. Buffalo's final tally was scored into an empty net. The 23-year-old netminder was beaten three times on the power play and once while shorthanded during the lopsided contest.

Fantasy Impact

This was a disastrous season debut for Merilainen, who is slated to serve as the No. 2 goalie behind Linus Ullmark. The Senators are hoping he can replicate his impressive numbers from last season (1.99 GAA, .925 save percentage), but this performance will not inspire confidence in fantasy managers. For now, he remains a handcuff for Ullmark owners and a risky spot-starter at best.

Leevi Merilainen was strong in net for the Senators Thursday night, stopping 25 of 26 shots faced in a 1-0 overtime loss to the Capitals.

Fantasy Impact

Merilainen continues a strong stretch in goal, allowing less than three goals in each of his last four starts (3-0-1) for the Senators. The goaltender has rewarded head coach Travis Green with a reliable netminding option playing behind an inconsistent Ottawa lineup, carrying an impressive 1.84 GAA and .930 save percentage in eight appearances (5-2-1, two shutouts) in the crease so far this season.