Bruins Coach Sturm Challenges Lindholm to Reclaim Calgary Form
Boston Bruins head coach Marco Sturm has publicly challenged star center Elias Lindholm to take a more assertive role in driving offensive play, mirroring his performance with the Calgary Flames.
The comments came after the Bruins’ 3-1 season-opening victory yesterday against the Washington Capitals, where Lindholm recorded a goal and an assist. While praising Lindholm’s initial performance, Sturm emphasized the need for increased initiative. “Damn, he was good,” Sturm said during postgame coverage. “That’s what I want to see a little more of him… I want him to drive the bus a little bit more and go back to the Calgary days, where I saw him take charge.”
Lindholm’s 2024-25 performance is particularly crucial for the Bruins, as he is in the second year of a seven-year, $54.25 million contract. Last season, the 30-year-old Swede experienced a dip in production, finishing with 17 goals and 30 assists for 47 points – well below his career high of 82 points. A revitalized Lindholm could significantly bolster Boston’s offensive capabilities, especially as they aim to contend for the Stanley Cup.
The Bruins will continue their season tonight with a home opener against the Chicago Blackhawks. Sturm indicated he expects to see Lindholm embrace a more proactive approach in tonight’s game and moving forward, hoping to unlock the offensive potential that made him a key player in Calgary. You can find more information about the Bruins schedule here.
