Rangers Pull Trigger on Deal for Flames’ Elias Lindholm to Reinforce Center Depth
The New York Rangers have taken a major step toward their Stanley Cup ambitions by acquiring veteran center Elias Lindholm from the Calgary Flames in a blockbuster trade aimed at solidifying their middle-six center depth.
The deal was announced early Thursday morning, sending Lindholm to the Big Apple in exchange for 2022 first-round pick Brennan Othmann, center Barclay Goodrow, and a 2025 first-round draft selection.
“Elias is a complete player — a 200-foot center who can play in all situations and contribute offensively,” Rangers GM Chris Drury said during a press conference at Madison Square Garden. “We feel like he fits our group perfectly and addresses a key need behind Mika.”
The move instantly elevates the Rangers’ center group, slotting Lindholm into the second-line center role — a spot the team has struggled to fill consistently over the past two seasons. While Vincent Trocheck and Filip Chytil have contributed, neither has offered the blend of two-way stability and scoring punch that Lindholm brings.
Lindholm, 30, is fresh off a 63-point campaign in Calgary and known for his faceoff prowess, defensive acumen, and strong playoff performance. With one year remaining on his contract, the Rangers are expected to begin extension talks immediately.
What Lindholm Brings to the Broadway Blueshirts
Lindholm’s arrival adds a much-needed layer of balance to the Rangers’ top six. While Mika Zibanejad remains the top-line anchor alongside Chris Kreider and Artemi Panarin, Lindholm is expected to center a second line featuring Alexis Lafrenière and Kaapo Kakko — two young talents in need of a stabilizing veteran presence.
“He’s the type of guy who can elevate others,” said Rangers head coach Peter Laviolette. “He makes the game easier for his linemates and takes pressure off our top line. His impact will be felt right away.”
Lindholm’s presence will also boost the Rangers’ penalty kill and power play units. He’s logged heavy minutes in both roles throughout his career and brings playoff-tested composure. In 2022, he was a Selke Trophy finalist and helped lead Calgary to the second round with 42 goals and an elite +61 rating.
From a stylistic standpoint, Lindholm’s versatility is what makes this acquisition so valuable. He can win critical faceoffs, shut down opposing top lines, and chip in with 20–25 goals and 50+ points per season. He also brings leadership and a calm locker room demeanor that could be critical in tight playoff games.
The Rangers’ locker room was reportedly buzzing with the news. Zibanejad, Panarin, and Fox were among those who reached out to Lindholm to welcome him aboard.
“We’re loading up,” said defenseman Adam Fox. “It’s Cup or bust now — and that’s how we want it.”
Flames Look to the Future, Rangers Push All-In
From Calgary’s side, the deal signals a continued shift toward retooling around younger players. By landing Brennan Othmann, one of New York’s top forward prospects, and a 2025 first-round pick, the Flames continue their youth movement after trading key veterans earlier in the season.
“This was about timing and value,” said Flames GM Craig Conroy. “Elias gave us great years, but we had to consider the long-term picture. We’re thrilled to bring in Othmann — a top-tier winger with offensive upside — and more draft capital.”
The Rangers, meanwhile, are now fully committed to their win-now window. With Igor Shesterkin in goal, an elite top-four defensive group, and a forward core full of firepower, New York has arguably the most complete roster in the Eastern Conference.
There are questions about how the team will manage its cap situation next season, especially if Lindholm signs long-term. But those are questions for another day. For now, it’s all about going for the Cup.
The trade was met with celebration among fans at Madison Square Garden and online, where the hashtags Lindholm To Broadway and No Excuses Now quickly trended.
“We needed this move. The East is a gauntlet,” said longtime fan Kenny Sabatino outside the Garden. “Now we’ve got the depth to hang with Carolina, Boston, whoever. Let’s go win this thing.”
TRADE RECAP
New York Rangers Receive:
- Elias Lindholm (C, 30 years old, 63 points in 2024–25)
Calgary Flames Receive:
- Brennan Othmann (W, NYR top-3 prospect)
- Barclay Goodrow (C, veteran two-way forward)
- 2025 1st-Round Pick
Leave a Reply