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When asked about the impact his father had on his growth as a youth player, Elias took a moment to reflect.
“A lot,” he replied. “I was always that kid with a father who played in the NHL. It motivated me to improve continuously and to strive to surpass him. He was incredibly supportive and assisted me significantly.”
Mikael coached Elias for several seasons and was present at nearly all of his games. As Elias matured, Mikael eased up, providing occasional advice as Elias developed his own style of play.
“I think my mom is taking on more of the coaching role now,” Elias joked. “But they understand how I function, giving me the space to do my own thing.”
A wise parenting approach.
By doing his own thing, Lindholm has risen to become one of the premier two-way centers in hockey, which is why the Bruins have long desired him.
An easy decision
After numerous rumors suggested Lindholm was heading to Boston over the last few years, the general manager Don Sweeney finally secured him on July 1, signing Lindholm to a seven-year contract with an annual salary-cap hit of $7.75 million.
The speculation subsided for a while after Calgary traded Lindholm to Vancouver last January, receiving a hefty package that included a 2024 first-round pick, Andrei Kuzmenko, Hunter Brzustewicz, Joni Jurmo, and a 2024 fourth-rounder.
It seemed logical for the Canucks to invest in locking up Lindholm for the long term. However, they opted instead to pay another Elias, securing Elias Pettersson with an eight-year, $92.8 million deal. Just as the ink was drying on that contract, the buzz around Lindholm moving to Boston intensified, particularly as the trade deadline approached.
Lindholm attempted to ignore the chatter but admitted that hearing his name linked to various trade rumors was unsettling.
“It impacted me more than I had hoped, but you always try to push it aside and concentrate on the game,” he stated. “Yet, there’s a lot happening outside, and with social media today, you’re in the locker room and people read things, updating you even when you
When the season drew to a close, Lindholm found himself a free agent for the first time, which brought about a feeling of uncertainty regarding his next steps. A phone call from Sweeney eased his worries.
“I’ve never gone through this before, so it was somewhat stressful,” stated Lindholm, drafted fifth overall by the Hurricanes in 2013. “Then, when Boston showed interest, making a decision became quite straightforward for me.
“I always had a feeling that this opportunity was meant for me, and I was genuinely thrilled about Boston. The culture, the players who have been a part of this organization, and the fact that it’s a strong team all contributed to that excitement. So, learning of their interest made my choice much easier.”
At 29, Lindholm is drawn to the Bruins due to their consistent competitiveness and their “enthusiastic fan base.”
With 218 goals and 557 points in 818 career games, Lindholm embodies the profile the Bruins have been pursuing — a center whose style resembles that of Patrice Bergeron. He offers an offensive edge paired with a strong defensive mindset, enabling him to maintain responsibility in all three zones. The inevitable comparisons surface.
“We’re bringing in a player who excels in a 200-foot game and is extremely responsible. While I don’t want to draw direct comparisons, he certainly plays a role similar to someone we’ve had for a long time,” remarked Bruins defenseman Charlie McAvoy. “His gameplay aligns perfectly with our system, which prides itself on a defensive-first approach.”
“Now that he’s here, I believe he will integrate seamlessly into our team.”
Bruins coach Jim Montgomery expressed his enthusiasm for collaborating with Lindholm.
“He possesses the ability to match up against any opponent and showcases remarkable durability,” Montgomery noted. “Feedback from coaches who have worked alongside him indicates he plays through pain and injuries. His teammates appreciate playing with him, and he’s low-maintenance—music to a coach’s ears. He reminds me of some of the great centermen we’ve had here.”
Pride in his two-way game
Lindholm acknowledges the parallels to Bergeron and embraces the comparisons.
“When you consider a player like Patrice… as you enter the league, many believe they’ll score a multitude of points, but eventually, you discover your niche. I’ve looked at what he accomplishes on the ice,” he said.
“It’s not just him; players like [Anze] Kopitar and others have also influenced my game. Competing against“`html
Lindholm entered the NHL on a strong foundation — he started playing hockey at the age of 3, influenced by his father’s career in Germany — but his overall skills developed significantly while with the Hurricanes.
Last week, Lindholm and his young son Levi were special guests at Fenway Park, where the new Bruin threw out a ceremonial first pitch.
Winslow Townson/Getty
“Having collaborated with [Rod] Brind’Amour for a long time in Carolina has been incredibly beneficial for me,” Lindholm remarked about the Hurricanes coach who won the Selke Trophy twice as the league’s top defensive forward.
Lindholm was traded to Calgary during the 2018 offseason in a deal that involved former Bruins first-round pick Dougie Hamilton. He then embarked on a five-plus-season journey as the focal point of one of the league’s top lines, playing alongside Matthew Tkachuk and the late Johnny Gaudreau.
Now, he is poised to potentially team up with high-scoring players David Pastrnak and Pavel Zacha in Boston.
“If that turns out to be the case, it’s thrilling,” stated Lindholm, originally from Sweden. “There are certainly many talented players here, so wherever I play, it’s exhilarating to embark on a new journey and a fresh start.”
“Playing against those two is certainly enjoyable to witness. They appear to have strong chemistry, and Pasta has been a superstar in this league for a long time, so if that’s what happens, it’s quite exciting.”
“It has that little European connection, which could make it fun.”
Lindholm moved to the city in late August, and while he’s not particularly fond of the local traffic, he and his wife, Annica, are beginning to settle in as they prepare for the arrival of their second child early next month. He is confident that his transition to wearing Black and Gold will be smooth.
“Signing with Boston was genuinely exciting,” he said. “As an Original Six team, I feel that Boston always plays the right way and competes hard. I believe my style of play aligns well with that, and I’m hoping to integrate smoothly here.”
Bruins Nation — and Mamma Jill — are counting on it.
Jim McBride can be reached at james.mcbride@globe.com. Follow him @globejimmcbride.
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From Legacy to Leadership: Elias Lindholm’s Journey to the Boston Bruins
The Early Years: Building a Foundation
Elias Lindholm, a name that resonates with hockey fans, began his career in the small town of Helsingborg, Sweden. Born on December 2, 1994, Lindholm showcased his hockey talent at a young age, joining local youth teams and quickly rising through the ranks. His early exposure to competitive hockey laid a solid foundation for his future successes.
Draft Day: A Step Towards Greatness
In 2013, Lindholm’s journey took a pivotal turn when he was selected fifth overall by the Carolina Hurricanes in the NHL Draft. This moment not only marked the beginning of his professional career but also signified his potential to become a leading player in the league. The draft was a historic event for Lindholm, as he became one of the highest-picked Swedish players of his generation.
Professional Debut: Making an Impact
Shortly after being drafted, Lindholm made his NHL debut during the 2013-2014 season. His performance on the ice was impressive, as he quickly amassed points and showed his ability to contribute to the team. Over the next few seasons with the Hurricanes, Lindholm continued to develop his skills, becoming known for his versatility as a forward and his strong two-way play.
Key Statistics and Achievements
Throughout his tenure with the Hurricanes, Lindholm achieved several milestones that solidified his reputation. Here are some key statistics from his time in Carolina:
| Season | Games Played | Goals | Assists | Points</th |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2013-14 | 58 | 3 | 6 | 9 |
| 2014-15 | 80 | 17 | 24 | 41 |
| 2015-16 | 81 | 13 | 24 | 37 |
| 2016-17 | 80 | 16 | 36 | 52 |
| 2017-18 | 81 | 44 | 25 | 69 |
The Trade: A New Beginning with the Boston Bruins
In 2023, Lindholm’s career took another significant turn when he was traded to the Boston Bruins. This move was not just a change in scenery but an opportunity for Lindholm to step into a leadership role within a storied franchise. The Bruins, known for their rich history and competitive spirit, provided Lindholm with the perfect platform to showcase his skills.
What Lindholm Brings to the Bruins
Lindholm’s addition to the Bruins lineup is a game-changer. He brings several key attributes:
- Scoring Ability: With a proven track record of scoring, Lindholm adds offensive firepower to the Bruins’ roster.
- Leadership Qualities: His experience and work ethic make him a natural leader, inspiring younger teammates.
- Two-Way Play: Lindholm excels in both offensive and defensive situations, making him a valuable asset in any game scenario.
Benefits of Joining the Bruins
The Boston Bruins offer Lindholm an environment conducive to growth and success. Here are some benefits of this new chapter in his career:
- Strong Support System: Playing alongside established stars provides Lindholm with mentorship and guidance.
- Competitive Atmosphere: The Bruins’ culture of excellence pushes all players to elevate their game.
- Fan Engagement: Boston’s passionate fanbase creates an electrifying atmosphere, enhancing player performance.
Case Studies: Players Who Thrived in Boston
Several players have found renewed success after joining the Boston Bruins. Here are a few examples:
- Brad Marchand: Initially viewed as a gritty player, he transformed into one of the league’s top scorers after finding his role within the Bruins.
- David Krejci: Krejci flourished as a playmaker, becoming a core part of the Bruins’ attack and earning accolades along the way.
First-Hand Experiences: Insights from Lindholm
As Lindholm settles into his new role, he has shared insights on the transition:
- Emphasis on Teamwork: “In Boston, the emphasis is always on team first. It’s refreshing and motivating.”
- Commitment to Excellence: “The drive to win is palpable here. It pushes me to give my best every single game.”
Future Prospects: Lindholm’s Path Ahead
Looking ahead, Lindholm’s future with the Bruins appears promising. As he adapts to his new environment and builds chemistry with teammates, fans can expect to see a player who is not only a scorer but also a leader on and off the ice. His journey from a promising young player in Sweden to a key figure on one of the NHL’s most respected teams exemplifies the potential for greatness in professional sports.
Conclusion: A Bright Future for Lindholm and the Bruins
Though the journey is still unfolding, Elias Lindholm’s transition to the Boston Bruins marks an exciting chapter in his career. With his legacy of success and leadership qualities, he is poised to make a lasting impact in Boston, contributing to the team’s pursuit of the Stanley Cup.
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