Need to know: Swayman, B’s set for Ullmark’s return visit

BOSTON – Jeremy Swayman didn’t show his cards.

The Bruins netminder would not reveal whether a special reunion hug would be in order Saturday night when Linus Ullmark and the Ottawa Senators visit TD Garden with Boston aiming for its fourth win in five games.

“It is always organic. But I guess you’ll have to wait and see,” Swayman said with a smile after Friday’s practice at Warrior Ice Arena.

Swayman shared the Boston net with Ullmark for three seasons as the duo formed what many believed to be the best goaltending tandem in the National Hockey League during their time together.

And while they may not be teammates anymore, Swayman said their bond will endure.

“It still hasn’t hit. It still feels like I have his presence around here and the traditions that we had still live on,” said Swayman, who added that he planned to spend time with Ullmark on Friday night . “It’s with every guy that’s been through this locker room and the relationships that I’ve had with both forwards and D-men and staff. It’s a testament to the guys who have been through this dressing room and worn the jersey. We are brothers for life.”

Swayman said Ullmark — with whom he teamed to win the Jennings Trophy in 2022-23 — was an invaluable mentor as he began to find his way at the professional level.

“I think it shows what kind of character he has and his awareness of picking up the guys around him and seeing what he could help with, the experiences he’s been through and shining a light on me that I didn’t would handle the same mistakes and have better awareness in different situations,” Swayman said.