The Boston Bruins have David Pastrnak as their biggest star and are now in the midst of a rebuild for the 2025-26 NHL season, facing significant defensive challenges after a year full of complications and the departure of star Brad Marchand.
Roster moves and injuries are part of a natural cycle in every preseason. However, Boston is rallying behind Pastrnak to achieve better results in the upcoming campaign. In that process, the franchise is regaining a key player returning from a long-term injury.
The return of a defenseman is always good news. The Bruins had already made moves on the blue line by signing Mason Lohrei to a two-year, $6.5 million extension. At the same time, another defenseman is being added to the team’s plans.
Who is the defenseman back in the Bruins’ lineup?
The player who is once again in top condition to take on the 2025-26 NHL season with the Bruins is none other than Hampus Lindholm. “One of my big goals is to have a strong start to the NHL season and to prove that I belong on the Swedish team, and I believe I do,” Lindholm told The Boston Globe.
Hampus Lindholm #27 of the Boston Bruins looks on against the Chicago Blackhawks during the first period at the United Center on October 24, 2023 in Chicago, Illinois.
“I feel like I still have my best hockey in me. That’s something I’ve used this summer as extra motivation, to make sure I can come back to Boston and pick up right where I left off, making sure I continue to grow and even get better,” Lindholm added while speaking about his return to the ice.
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Last season’s struggles
Lindholm played just 17 games during the 2024-25 season due to a fractured kneecap. During that stretch, he scored three goals and tallied four assists. While it initially seemed his return would come in February, the Bruins defenseman had to deal with setbacks during his rehab process.
