The Bruins Need Hampus Lindholm to Have a Strong Start this Season

The Bruins will look to Hampus Lindholm to hold the reins defensively while star Charlie McAvoy recovers from offseason surgery. Boston acquired Lindholm for a big price tag last season. The former Anaheim Duck was dealt in exchange for Urho Vaakanainen, John Moore, a first-round pick and two-second round picks.

A hot start from Lindholm will be vital, as the Atlantic Division is as stacked as ever. Lindholm showed glimpses of strong play last season with Boston before he was ultimately injured during the playoffs. Lindholm was a former sixth overall pick and is currently training back home in Sweden with his former team, Rogle BK.

What do the Bruins need in Lindholm? Defense. The Bruins need a consistent, puck-moving d-man that can kill time off the clock. Something Charlie McAvoy did really well. The Bruins will count on Lindholm in the dying parts of games. They need a player to be able to play 25 minutes a game, like McAvoy does.

Last season with the Bruins, Lindholm suited up in ten regular season games. Lindholm was solid offensively and provided five assists. He served on the second power play unit and recorded one PP assist.
 
Lindholm also played a solid defensive role for the Bruins last season. He served time on the penalty kill. Lindholm is a player that is hard on his stick and is a relatively good puck mover. Lindholm likes to interact with offensive opportunities. For example, jumping up in players But it is also worth noting that he uses his quick speed to get back on defence once done.


Ultimately, Lindholm will be a key part of the Bruins success or capitulation without the likes of Charlie McAvoy.