The Bruins announced today that they have signed forward Par Lindholm to a two-year contract worth $1.7 million ($850,000 AAV). Lindholm, 27, split this past season between the Toronto Maple Leafs and Winnipeg Jets, tallying one goal and 13 assists in 65 games between the two teams. He also played in two playoff games for the Jets but recorded no points. The 6’0”, 183-pound center came over the Leafs from the SHL last season where he put up 47 points in 49 games in 2017-18. His offense has yet to translate to the NHL, but he’s a strong two-way player who is good on the fourth line and could potentially be more if he finds a way to translate his offense from the SHL to the NHL, which there’s a chance of. I like this signing better the Ritchie one but I’m confused as to why Sweeney gave him less money than Ritchie. Lindholm produced more than double the points of Ritchie last season and could do more this season, yet is making $150,000 less. I’m also not sure where it was necessary to sign both of them when they already have three fourth-liners in Sean Kuraly, Chris Wagner, and Joakim Nordstrom under contract for next season. I would much rather have Lindholm that Ritchie given he’s cheaper and produced more offensively, so I’m glad Sweeny signed him. Yes, Ritchie is a more physical player, but Lindholm can still play physical and Wagner and Kuraly both bring a lot of physicality so it’s not necessary. I think that this is a good signing by Sweeney and that Lindholm will be a strong depth option for them next season, especially if he can find a way to translate at least a little more offense from the SHL, particularly when it comes to scoring goals.
Welcome to Boston, Par!
Hockey Addict 