Elias Lindholm has established himself as one of the NHL's premier two-way centers, known for his relentless work ethic and offensive touch. Fans who have followed his journey from Carolina to Calgary, and more recently to Vancouver and Boston, might notice a recurring theme with his jersey number. While he started his career wearing #16, Elias Lindholm most recently sported the number 28 for the Boston Bruins, a choice that has a neat little backstory tied to his time in Alberta.
From Hurricanes to Bruins: The Story of #28
Lindholm entered the league with the Carolina Hurricanes, proudly wearing #16, a number he donned throughout his tenure there. However, a significant change occurred when he was traded to the Calgary Flames in the blockbuster deal that sent Dougie Hamilton and Noah Hanifin to Carolina in 2018. Upon arrival in Calgary, Lindholm found his familiar #16 was already taken by then-Flames forward Matthew Tkachuk. Faced with a new team and an unavailable number, Lindholm opted for #28, a number he would wear with distinction for over five seasons, becoming synonymous with his emergence as an elite center in Calgary.
The journey of Lindholm's number didn't end there. When he was traded from Calgary to the Vancouver Canucks in January 2024, #28 was unavailable once more, this time worn by veteran defenseman Ian Cole. Consequently, Lindholm briefly donned #23 for his stint in Vancouver. However, a subsequent trade to the Boston Bruins in March 2024 saw #28 open for the taking. Without hesitation, Lindholm reclaimed the number that had become his identity during his most productive years in Calgary. This choice highlights his preference for #28, a number he adopted out of necessity but has since made his own, proudly wearing it as he continues his NHL career.
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