The Bruins were initially interested in Lindholm while he was still with the Calgary Flames, but he ended up being traded to the Vancouver Canucks on Jan. 31 in exchange for a 2024 first-round draft pick, another pick, and multiple players. However, there’s speculation that things might not be going smoothly for Lindholm in Vancouver, leading to rumors of a potential move to the Bruins before the NHL trade deadline on Friday.
According to The Athletic’s Chris Johnston, the Canucks are pursuing Jake Guentzel of the Pittsburgh Penguins, and trading Lindholm to the Bruins could potentially facilitate that deal, though the specifics are unclear. Guentzel is one of the top forwards rumored to be available, and the Penguins are reportedly looking for specific assets in return.
Lindholm’s recent performance with the Canucks hasn’t been impressive, as he hasn’t scored in his last nine games and has been without a point in his last seven matchups. Despite this, he has shown his capabilities with six points in 14 games for the Canucks and a total of 38 points in 63 games this season.
The Bruins are in need of additional scoring depth before the trade deadline, and Lindholm fits the bill as a middle-six forward who can contribute offensively both at even strength and on the power play. He has a strong track record as a top-six center, averaging nearly 28 goals over the past five seasons, and he’s also known for his defensive abilities and success in faceoffs.
However, Lindholm is in the final year of his contract and would likely command a significant salary in a new deal, raising questions about whether the Bruins are willing to commit to him long-term or view him as a short-term rental option.
Overall, the potential acquisition of Lindholm by the Bruins presents an intriguing scenario worth keeping an eye on leading up to the trade deadline.
