Ottawa Senators risk losing $2.9 million goaltender for nothing after qualifying decision

The Ottawa Senators might have put themselves in a tough spot by not qualifying goaltender Samuel Ersson before the start of NHL free agency. The ruling paves the way for the 26-year-old to become an unrestricted free agent if a new deal is not reached quickly.The move was particularly surprising as Ottawa acquired Ersson earlier this offseason for a fifth-round draft pick. The organization reportedly still wants to keep the goaltender, but it appears avoiding salary arbitration played a big part in the decision.Samuel Ersson qualification decision creates uncertainty for Ottawa SenatorsThe Ottawa Senators' decision not to qualify Samuel Ersson has put the franchise in a position to potentially lose a recently acquired goaltender for nothing.Why did the Ottawa Senators decline to qualify Samuel ErssonOttawa’s front office was said to be keen to avoid an arbitration hearing that could have resulted in a higher cap hit for the goaltender. The Senators can also extend contract talks and still be able to negotiate by not tendering a qualifying offer.But it’s a risky approach because once free agency officially opens, Ersson can talk to other teams.How did Samuel Ersson arrive with the Ottawa Senators?Samuel Ersson’s road to Ottawa was unconventional. Before being traded to the Senators for a fifth-round pick days later, the Toronto Maple Leafs first acquired him from the Philadelphia Flyers in a salary-cap-related deal.The quick turnaround has led some observers to question if Ottawa was ever truly committed to the Swedish goaltender in the long term.What makes Samuel Ersson attractive on the free-agent marketErsson, a fifth-round pick in 2018, has developed into a reliable NHL goaltender. He was a promising young player with the Philadelphia Flyers and has played in over 100 NHL games during his career.With several teams expected to be in the market for more goaltending depth this summer, the Senators could be facing stiff competition if talks don’t lead to a new deal before free agency opens.Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.