Canadiens: Right-Shot Defenseman Departs from the Team
As General Manager Kent Hughes continues his efforts to shape the Montreal Canadiens into a consistent playoff contender, several critical roster needs remain. Chief among them is securing a dependable second-line center, closely followed by acquiring a reliable right-shot defenseman. Unfortunately, the team has just lost another option on that front.
Gustav Lindstrom, who originally entered the NHL as the 38th overall pick by the Detroit Red Wings in the 2017 draft, joined Montreal prior to the 2023–24 season as part of the second trade involving Jeff Petry. However, after only 18 games with the Canadiens, he was placed on waivers and subsequently claimed by the Anaheim Ducks.
Following a brief stint with Anaheim, Lindstrom rejoined the Canadiens after being released from a professional tryout agreement, eventually signing a one-year, two-way contract. While playing for the Laval Rocket, Montreal’s AHL affiliate, he recorded 11 points in 42 regular season games and added 2 points in 13 playoff appearances.
Earlier this week, Swedish club Djurgården officially announced that Lindstrom had signed a five-year deal with them. The move isn’t entirely unexpected, considering he was being overtaken by younger prospects in the Canadiens’ system, such as David Reinbacher and Logan Mailloux. Though the departure of any player is noteworthy, Lindstrom was not considered a long-term fit for the organization or a likely contributor at the NHL level.
At present, the Canadiens’ management isn’t urgently seeking a replacement. Lindstrom’s exit may simply be the beginning of a broader trend, with more veteran players potentially opting to pursue opportunities elsewhere during the offseason.
