With Krejci and Nordstrom question marks for the start of the regular season, there may be some added opportunity for Par Lindholm. Signed as a free agent on July 1, the center has performed well to this point in training camp and could provide Cassidy with some valuable depth lower in the lineup.
"He feels that he has more to give offensively," said Cassidy. "He knows what we have in the middle of the ice, but still feels given an opportunity that he could certainly slide up there if the situation were to allow him to do that. So far he's been a man of his word saying he could do it."
Lindholm had a strong performance in the Bruins' preseason win over New Jersey on Wednesday night while playing on a line with Anders Bjork and David Backes. Lindholm assisted on Backes' third-period tally and also rang a breakaway attempt off the post late in the final frame.
"He made some good plays - that line was lights out offensively the other night," said Cassidy. "They worked hard away from the puck. Backes' goal was a great example. Bjorkie gets back to break up a play and off they go the other way.
"Lindy makes a good play, breakaway, nice shot, beat the goalie clean. Made some plays in small areas. It doesn't cost him anything at the other end defending, he's been solid. So far, so good."
The 27-year-old Sweden native is entering his second season in the NHL after nearly a decade of playing in his home country. Last year, he played 61 games for Toronto, posting a 1-11-12 line, before being traded to Winnipeg at the trade deadline.
As he once again deals with a change in scenery, Lindholm is beginning to get more comfortable with his new teammates.
"When you get to know them it's easier to play with them too," said Lindholm. "I feel comfortable. I think we had a really good game - me, Backes, and Bjorkie. It felt good. We worked hard for each other, scored a goal too. Could have been more goals, but we won the game."
