ESPN released their Top 100 players in the NHL list this week. Of the six Bruins who were on it, one was new and five had been on it before.
Four of the five returnees were ranked lower heading into the 2024-25 season than they were a year ago. Former Bruin Linus Ullmark, who was on the list last year at No. 47, checked in here at No. 73.
Here’s who made it and where they landed in reverse order.
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97. Hampus Lindholm — After landing at No. 43 after being a Norris Trophy candidate in 2022-23, the 30-year-old defenseman fell 54 spots, but stayed in the top 100. ESPN wrote:
“Lindholm’s breakout 53-point campaign in 2022-23 was followed by a step back in 2023-24 (26 points). Which direction will the 30-year-old Swede head this season?”
61. Elias Lindholm — Lindholm jumped up one spot in the rankings after a year when he changed teams twice. ESPN liked the prospect of he and David Pastrnak playing together and wrote:
“Considered one of the better two-way centers in the NHL, Lindholm should thrive playing alongside David Pastrnak after signing with the Bruins in the offseason.”
48. Brad Marchand — After landing at No. 35 at age 35, Marchand added one year and fell 13 spots. He’s reached the point in his career, where nobody wants to look like they didn’t predict his eventual age decline coming.
“Marchand’s first season playing without Patrice Bergeron saw him wear the “C” with pride, and continue to post big offensive numbers for the Bruins.”
47. Jeremy Swayman — Swayman wasn’t on this list last year. He is not only is on it now, but cracked the top 50 in his first year as the team’s likely No. 1 goalie. ESPN wrote:
“Another new face in the Top 100, Swayman’s performances last season showed he could be a No. 1 goaltender who could also get paid like one, too.”
41. Charlie McAvoy — McAvoy’s rank took a hit, dropping from 25 to 41, but the write-up predicted a big year:
“McAvoy is another example of why teams continue to seek defensemen who can do everything — with the reality that a strong offensive season in 2024-25 could give him a good shot at his first Norris Trophy.”
11. David Pastrnak — Pastrnak fell one spot to No. 11, but is still in pretty elite company. ESPN wrote:
“When Pasta cooks, goals happen. The Bruins winger is second in the NHL in goals over the past four seasons, including 47 goals and 110 points last season.”
