2024 All-Star Center Signs with the Bruins
The Canucks went all-in last season with the goal of winning the Stanley Cup, and they did so by trading for All-Star center Elias Lindholm from the Calgary Flames before the 2024 All-Star Break. Lindholm scored six goals, six assists, and 12 points, including three power-play goals in his 26 regular season games with the Canucks. Lindholm's scoring efficiency would increase throughout the postseason; in 13 postseason games with Vancouver, he scored five goals and two power-play goals. The 11-year starter entered free agency as one of the league’s best two-way players available on the free agent market. Now, the Boston Bruins have signed Lindholm to a seven-year deal worth $54.25 million.
The 29-year-old Lindholm played hockey in his native Sweden, where he became a productive goal scorer. The Carolina Hurricanes selected Lindholm with the fifth overall pick in the 2013 NHL Entry Draft. At the age of 18, Lindholm became the youngest player from Sweden to score a goal in the NHL during his rookie campaign. He went on to show off his scoring prowess right away, finishing his first professional season with nine goals, 12 assists, and 21 points. After playing with the Hurricanes for a few seasons, Lindholm was sent to the Calgary Flames, where he became a genuinely elite center in the NHL. During his breakout season with the Flames in 2018-19, Lindholm set career-high numbers with 27 goals, 51 assists and 78 points.
Whether it's in a five-on-five situation or on a power play, Lindholm has proven throughout his career that he can have an impact at any time throughout the game. He's a tremendous asset because he can play a 200-foot game, win faceoffs, and contribute offensively and defensively. Given his track record of success and strong hockey instincts, Lindholm is expected to be a crucial member of the Bruins as they strive for a deep postseason run next season. With Lindholm on the roster, the Bruins will be a formidable opponent as they have an additional goal-scoring threat on the ice.
