Only a few weeks ago, the Bruins secured centre Elias Lindholm with a substantial seven-year, $54.25 million deal, aiming for the 29-year-old forward to become the cornerstone of Boston’s top line for years to come. Lindholm, a Swedish national, has established himself as one of the NHL’s premier two-way forwards, consistently racking up over 50 points in four of his 11 seasons and earning a runner-up spot for the Selke Trophy in 2021-22. Sweeney had been eyeing Lindholm for a while, and his patience paid off when the player hit free agency.
Recently Signed Boston Bruins Centre Poised to Make Major Impact
Lindholm’s versatility will be a huge asset for head coach Jim Montgomery, who can now count on him in all situations. With Lindholm on board, the Bruins are hoping to see the Calgary Flames version of him. Several players on the team are poised to benefit from Lindholm’s arrival, including Nikita Zadrov, who has played with Lindholm in both Calgary and Vancouver.
Elias Lindholm Versatility Key for Bruins in Foreseeable Future
In his last two complete seasons with Calgary, he averaged an impressive 32 goals and 73 points. However, during the 2023-24 season, split between the Flames and Canucks, he managed only 44 points (15 goals, 29 assists) in 75 games. On a positive note, he found his stride in the playoffs with Vancouver, racking up 10 points in 13 games. Moreover, he also achieved a personal best with a 56.4 faceoff percentage throughout the season.
Nikita Zadorov is among those anticipating a significant improvement in Lindholm’s performance. Zadorov, who has previously played with Lindholm in Calgary and Vancouver, has seen firsthand Lindholm’s capability to excel when given the opportunity to play on the top line. Despite facing challenges after being traded to the Canucks in January, Zadorov believes Lindholm will shine with the Bruins.
Elias Lindholm Alongside His Teammates
Lindholm, a dynamic forward, showcased his playmaking abilities by recording over 30 assists in four seasons with the Flames, notably achieving 51 assists in 2018-19 despite his team not consistently making the playoffs. Pairing him with Pastrnak, both during 5v5 and power plays, will undoubtedly lead to increased scoring chances and better ice positioning. Signing Lindholm was a strategic move in free agency. It helps to solidify a strong offensive duo with Pastrnak. Furthermore, this will ensure continued success as one of the NHL’s top offensive players.
In addition to his impressive two-way abilities and the potential for a resurgence in scoring, Lindholm’s presence is likely to trigger a beneficial ripple effect throughout Boston’s forward lineup. The current centre alignment, featuring Charlie Coyle, Pavel Zacha, Morgan Geekie, and Matthew Poitras, all surpassed expectations last season. Thus all proving themselves as essential players who can significantly influence the game for Boston.
Don Sweeney Weighs in on Elias
Don Sweeney has already identified Lindholm as a key player a the Boston Bruins top line centre alongside Pastrnak for the 2024-25 season.
While it may be a tall order for Lindholm to match the impressive 42-goal, 82-point performance he had with Calgary in the 2021-22 season. That year he played alongside stars Matthew Tkachuk and Johnny Gaudreau.Now, his prominent role next to Pastrnak should help him return to being a reliable 60-point contributor in his new environment with Boston.
“Way back in the draft we identified Elias that has a lot of Bergeron qualities”, said Don Sweeney at a press event back on July 1st. “Kudos to our scouting staff who follow these guys and watching the growth of Zadorov but also acknowledging where Elias remains in his career and bringing the attributes he does. Kind of been a two year pursuit to tell you the truth, wondering if he would ever get to free agency.”
Main photo: Bob Frid-USA TODAY Sports
"Way back in the draft we identified Elias as a player that has a lot of the Bergeron qualities."
Don Sweeney on the #NHLBruins 2-year pursuit of Elias Lindholm. pic.twitter.com/ITWl7MemJm
— NESN (@NESN) July 1, 2024
