Three takeaways from Canucks acquisition of Elias Lindholm from Flames

Roughly a year ago, the Canucks said goodbye to All-Star and former captain Bo Horvat, who they dealt to the New York Islanders for a first-round pick and two players. This time, however, they're acquiring an All-Star from the Calgary Flames in forward Elias Lindholm, fresh off his first career nod.

Here are three takeaways from the Canucks massive move.

Lindholm adds versatility to an already deep Canucks' team 

The addition of Lindholm gives the Canucks a bonafide No. 2 center behind fellow All-Star J.T. Miller. A right-handed shot, he can impact both the powerplay and penalty kill units, which should only strengthen a Vancouver team that leads the Western Conference with 71 points (33-11-5).   

The 29-year-old hasn't had his strongest season with the fledgling Flames, recording only 23 points (nine goals, 23 assists) in 49 games. However, he's two seasons removed from a 42-goal campaign and playing alongside a talent group in Vancouver should do wonders for a turnaround. 

Lindholm will be a rental for now 

According to TSN insider Pierre LeBrun, the Canucks deal for Lindholm wasn't contingent upon the All-Star agreeing on a contract extension with the team. He's in the final season of a six-year, $29.1M contract and will become eligible for unrestricted free agency this summer. 

While the Canucks run the risk of giving up assets for only a short-time rental, there's reason to believe a deal can get done. After all, there is a history between Lindholm and Vancouver GM and president Jim Rutherford, who selected him fifth overall in the 2013 NHL Draft while holding the same position with the Carolina Hurricanes. 

Flames likely did the best they could 

A divorce was probably on the horizon for the Flames and Lindholm, whether through trade or free agency. Considering the circumstances, the franchise likely netted the best deal possible, acquiring forward Andrei Kuzmenko, defensive prospects Hunter Brzustewicz and Joni Jurmo, and two draft picks, including a 2024 first-rounder. 

There's promise behind a first-round pick and several youngsters with potential, but Kuzmenko might be the most intriguing name of the group. He's struggled this season (eight goals, 13 assists), but after scoring 39 goals as a rookie in 2022-23, there may still be something untapped left in the winger.