General manager Don Sweeney signed centerman Elias Lindholm and defenseman Nikita Zadorov to significant contracts on the first day of free agency, while also adding veteran forwards Max Jones and Riley Tufte to bolster the team’s depth.
“It demonstrates the ownership’s commitment to staying competitive,” said Sweeney. “We’ve been very competitive but haven’t had the playoff success we expect. These players should help in that area.
“We need to continue developing our players, like Matt Poitras, who is recovering well from shoulder surgery, and Mason Lohrei, who can now focus on growing his offensive game without being overburdened with playing time.”
Sweeney highlighted the importance of signing players who fit the team’s culture and goals.
Here’s a closer look at the new additions:- **Contract:** 7 years, $7.75 million AAV
Lindholm, a former fifth overall pick in 2013, is entering his 12th NHL season. After five seasons with Carolina and five-plus with Calgary, he was traded to Vancouver before last season’s deadline, scoring 15 goals and 44 points in 65 games.
“He felt he underperformed last season but did well in the playoffs with Vancouver,” said Sweeney. “We believe he’ll thrive in a top-line role with David Pastrnak and on the power play.”
Lindholm, who has a career-high of 42 goals and 82 points in the 2021-22 season, has consistently reached the 20-goal mark in other seasons.
Sweeney noted that the team had been following Lindholm’s career, recognizing his potential early on. Lindholm’s faceoff percentage of 53.5% throughout his career, with 56.4% last season, also aligns with the Bruins’ goal of strengthening their center position.
“We’ve had strong centers historically, and Lindholm fits well with our current lineup,” said Sweeney. “He’s expected to excel in faceoffs and play a key role on our power play, filling gaps we’ve identified.”
