Hampus Lindholm has stepped up when needed the most
As the Bruins have gotten off to one of their best starts in franchise history, they have been without a critical piece in Charlie McAvoy. In his absence, they have relied on their depth and Hampus Lindholm. The former sixth-overall pick has risen to the challenge. Over the last few weeks, he has shown why he is expected to be a fixture on this team for years to come.
Through the Bruins' first 10 games, Lindholm has 11 points, including four goals. He has been a force offensively and has come through in clutch situations. While he is the only Bruins defenseman that has reached the ten-point mark, he is making an impact at both ends of the ice.
The former first-round pick has landed 14 hits in 243 total minutes of ice time. Lindholm has also blocked 11 shots which is only four less than his total for the Bruins last season in the same number of games. His impressive play is placing him in elite company.
Entering play on Thursday, Lindholm ranked third among all NHL defensemen in points. He has at least one point in four of his last five games. The 2021 draftee also is the only defenseman in the league with a four-point game this season. As the Bruins have been nearly unstoppable offensively, the Swedish native is filling up the stat sheet.
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Additionally, Lindholm has appeared more comfortable in his first full season with the Bruins than last year after the trade. While he has played a crucial role in the team's success, the former Duck told reporters Tuesday night following his late-game heroics that the Bruins recent dominance has been a team effort.
“It's really fun to see this team's resilience...people are working for each other...super stoked about the team win," Lindholm told reporters.
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Even when the Bruins are at full strength, they will rely on their veteran defenseman. He was brought in to give Boston another above-average option on the blue line, and he has met expectations. His recent play has come as no surprise for the Bruins and created excitement for the future.
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