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In the Anaheim Ducks’ largest move ahead of the trade deadline, Hampus Lindholm was dealt to the Boston Bruins one week ago.
In exchange for Lindholm and defenseman Kodie Curran, the Ducks received a first-round pick in this year’s draft, second-round picks in both 2023 and 2024, prospect Urho Vaakanainen and defenseman John Moore.
Lindholm had spent his whole career with the Ducks, from the time in which he was drafted sixth overall a decade ago. He’d been counted on more than any other defender on the team in recent years and his loss will be felt in a big way.
Of the three key free agents, Lindholm would’ve been the best to re-sign, not only based on his usage but his age as well. He’s still just 28 years old and should still have a lot of good years remaining. That said, you also have to factor in that by the time the Ducks are realistically looking to contend again, Lindholm would be into his 30s. The value of a long-term deal will come in the first half of the contract and the timeline didn’t necessarily match up for Anaheim.
And if the Ducks were going to trade Lindholm, they probably got a better return than anyone could’ve expected.
Along with the first-round pick and two second-round picks, Vaakanainen was also an 18th overall pick in 2017. While he hasn’t quite found his way in the NHL yet, he’s still young and should get a great opportunity with the Ducks.
Taking back John Moore isn’t an issue for Anaheim either. His contract expires in 2023 and a chunk of the $2.75 million cap hit can be buried anyways.
As important of a piece as Lindholm was, this is a great return for Anaheim. The move sets them up well as they continue to get younger and build for the future – it’s the kind of trade that could be looked back on as a key turning point a few years down the line.
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