MAJOR | Insider drops a bombshell regarding Elias Lindholm and his future in Vancouver

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Luc Leblanc
February 22, 2024 (12:54)

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The Canucks shook the hockey world a few weeks ago as they acquired star Flames forward Elias Lindholm in exchange for former 39-goal scorer Andrei Kuzmenko and breakout prospect Hunter Brzustewicz, among others. Despite only scoring nine goals with the Flames this season before being dealt, Lindholm has certainly seen an uptick in scoring in a Canucks uniform, with four goals in just nine games coming in two multi-goal efforts. He has played over 19 minutes in six of those nine games, highlighting his importance to this Canucks offence, which was already among the most potent prior to his acquisition.

However, as Lindholm is on an expiring contract (which was a major factor in his parting with Calgary), whether he was acquired as a short-term rental piece or a longer-term part of the club was yet to be determined. Frank Seravalli has now reported that it is the former which appears to be the most likely outcome:

«Very likely trending towards him walking.»@frank_seravalli on the chances of Elias Lindholm re-signing with the Vancouver Canucks.

Presented By | @ToyotaPacific pic.twitter.com/lH87bPUO3I� CanucksArmy (@CanucksArmy) February 22, 2024

This report suggests that Lindholm is favouring «walking», or testing the free agency market. However, this does not completely rule out a reunion with Vancouver, should the two parties be able to work out a contract suitable to both. Given Lindholm has only been a Canuck for a few weeks, there will be ample time for him and his party to make a final decision regarding his future as time progresses.

Seravalli also states the imperative for the Canucks to win the Pacific Division. Vancouver currently holds a whopping ten-point lead over the second-place Vegas Golden Knights, though the Knights have two games in hand.