How Elias Lindholm Reminds David Pastrnak Of Bruins Legends

Elias Lindholm was one of the Boston Bruins’ biggest signings of the offseason, and fans couldn’t help but be excited to see how the veteran center would pair with David Pastrnak.

Head coach Jim Montgomery hopes the 29-year-old can bring a “killer instinct” to the power play as he figures out the best combinations to roll out in the regular season.

Pastrnak worked with Lindholm on the first day of training camp Thursday, but Lindholm was absent Friday due to “maintenance.” Still, the center made an impression on the Bruins star.

“He’s a little bit of both (David Krejci) and (Patrice Bergeron),” Pastrnak told reporters, per team-provided video. “Obviously, he’s a hell of a two-way player, and he has a high hockey IQ. Of course, he’s a righty. I’ve played most of my career with a right-handed centerman. I’m excited to build the chemistry. Whether we play together or not, we’re for sure going to have some looks on power play or 5-on-5. Excited he’s going to be a big part of our team.”

Pastrnak joked that Lindholm needed the day off after dealing with his “Czech pace,” but Montgomery noted there wasn’t any long-term worry with Lindholm.

The Bruins begin preseason play this Sunday against the New York Rangers at TD Garden. Full coverage on NESN begins 5 p.m. ET.