Elias Lindholm Knew Trade Was Eventually Coming

Elias Lindholm knew he was going to be traded, he just wanted it over and done with. Now, after a blockbuster deal which sent him to the Vancouver Canucks, the Swedish centre is relieved to have it in the past and now he can concentrate on hockey for the rest of the season.

Lindholm is very happy to put all the trade rumors behind him and at All-Star weekend he caught up with Sportsnet's Luke Fox and had this to say on the matter:

Kinda had this in the back of my mind for a long time. So, I'm kinda happy it's over with. Get a fresh start. Go to a really good team. Hopefully, we can continue to do what they've been doing and have some fun later on. I was ready. I was prepared for anything. Going to Vancouver, one of the best teams in the league. So many good players, good goaltending, good defensemen. I'm super excited and can't wait to get started.

Lindholm was the top trade target on the board this season and now heads to one of the very best teams in the league. He's a two-way centre who is going to help the Canucks in all situations and certainly gives them a serious boost heading into the playoffs. There's no doubt the Canucks are going for it and don't be surprised if GM Patrik Allvin has another trade up his sleeve. There's some rumors the team is going after former Canuck, Chris Tanev. 

As for Lindholm, he'll slot in down the middle among the top six and has registered 32 points in 49 games this season. He's a pending free agent at season's end and no word yet if the Canucks will try hard to re-sign him this summer. First, it's time to make a run at the Cup.

Photo credit:   Nick Turchiaro-USA TODAY Sports