Bruins Expected to Target Canucks Star
Don't be surprised if the Bruins look to sign this center during the summer.
Leading up to the 2024 NHL Trade Deadline, the Boston Bruins were linked to Vancouver Canucks forward Elias Lindholm. That was also the case when before the Calgary Flames dealt him to the Canucks earlier this campaign. They also tried to add him this past summer.
Because of their well-established and long-term interest in Lindholm, The Athletic's Fluto Shinzawa believes that the Bruins will target him if he elects to test the free-agent market this offseason. Here's what Shinzawa said on the matter:
"But it remains to be seen how long the Bruins would prefer to proceed without an impact pivot. If Elias Lindholm chooses to explore free agency over staying with the Vancouver Canucks, the Bruins would surely kick the tires. It would allow them to move Zacha to the wing or give Poitras time in the AHL if needed."
There's no question that the Bruins will be in a position to bring in a high-impact forward like Lindholm this offseason. Due to several players having expiring contracts, they will have a lot of money to work with during the summer. With Lindholm being a player they clearly like and the best pending UFA center who could hit the market, this summer would be the time to get him.
Bringing in Lindholm would give the Bruins' top six a major boost, and that remains true whether he would play on their first line or second line. Along with that, he is an excellent two-way forward, so he would work on Boston's power play and penalty kill if signed.
There's still a lot of time until free agency, and the Canucks surely could get him signed to an extension before then. However, if not, it will not be surprising if the Bruins are among the top suitors for him. The fit is there.