Elias Lindholm traded in COMPLICATED monster transaction!

The Vancouver Canucks were reportedly seeking a top-six forward ahead of the March 8 trade deadline and they have found it in Elias Lindholm. On Wednesday evening, the Calgary Flames traded Lindholm to the Canucks in return for forward Andrei Kuzmenko along with prospect defenseman Hunter Brzustewicz amongst other pieces. 

At first, it was quite complicated since, when first reported, the trade was rumoured to involve Kuzmenko, however, it was quickly pointed out that Calgary was on his no-trade list. His agent Dan Milstein had to work hard on the process in order to finalize the transaction.

Pierre LeBrun has just reported that Kuzmenko has officially signed off on his NTC to accept a trade to Calgary. His agent Dan Milstein confirmed that both clubs had been working on a deal since Sunday. 

"Andrei Kuzmenko spoke with both the GM and Head Coach prior to agreeing to the trade. He is looking forward to joining the Calgary Flames. He is extremely appreciative for the support received from the team and fans over the last 1.5 years. Thank you for giving him the opportunity to play in the NHL and call Vancouver home."

When the trade was officially announced by the Flames, they confirmed the FULL PACKAGE they are receiving which includes: Andrei Kuzmenko, a 2024 first round pick, Hunter Brzustewicz, Joni Jurmo and a conditional 2024 fourth round pick from the Vancouver Canucks in exchange for Elias Lindholm.

Kuzmenko’s name has been dropped in trade rumours for weeks, especially since he’s struggled all season long and could benefit from a change of scenery. The 27-year-old forward is in the first year of a two-year, $11 million contract that he signed in January 2023 with a cap hit of $5.5 million. Kuzmenko only has eight goals on the year.

Pierre LeBrun also pointed out that the trade does not include an extension for Lindholm as part of this Vancouver trade being worked on. He would be going as a rental at least at the outset.

Lindholm has been flying to Toronto for the All-Star Game where he was voted as a member of the Flames. That also slowed down the process in order to get in touch with him during the process of the trade. 

It’s been reported for a while now that Lindholm is expected to be on the move prior to the March 8 trade deadline. He is in the final year of his current contract and extension talks with the Flames have fizzled, and with Calgary currently out of the playoff picture, it make sense that GM Craig Conroy would move a key bait like Lindholm to get some roster capital in return.

On Saturday, Lindholm finally snapped out of a 15-game scoring drought, but he still has only put up nine goals and 23 assists in 49 appearances this season. This puts him on pace for his lowest point total in any of his five full seasons in Calgary. And now, his last.

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