Montreal Canadiens Re-sign Gustav Lindström to One-Year Deal Worth \$775,000
By Samuel Giroux – June 7, 2025
MONTREAL — The Montreal Canadiens announced Friday that they have re-signed defenseman Gustav Lindström to a one-year contract worth \$775,000, keeping the Swedish blueliner in the fold as the team continues its measured rebuild.
The 25-year-old Lindström, who joined the Canadiens in 2023 via trade from the Detroit Red Wings, has emerged as a steady, low-risk option on the right side of the defense. The new contract reflects both his reliability and the team’s ongoing need for cost-effective depth as they develop their next generation of blueliners.
“Gustav brings consistency and a calm presence to our back end,” Canadiens general manager Kent Hughes said in a press release. “He understands his role and executes it with professionalism. We’re happy to have him back for another year as we continue building our team’s identity.”
Lindström appeared in 41 games for Montreal last season, recording six points (1 goal, 5 assists), while averaging just over 15 minutes of ice time per game. Though he wasn’t a fixture in the top four, his responsible play, especially in penalty-killing situations, earned praise from head coach Martin St. Louis.
“He doesn’t make a lot of noise, and that’s usually a good thing for a defenseman,” said St. Louis during media availability. “You can trust him to make the right decision under pressure, and he’s a great teammate.”
Originally a second-round pick (38th overall) by Detroit in the 2017 NHL Draft, Lindström has totaled 168 NHL games with 27 points across five seasons. Though he has yet to make a major offensive impact, his physical style and smart positioning have made him a reliable depth piece — something the Canadiens have leaned on heavily in recent seasons as their young core develops.
With the one-year deal, Lindström will once again serve as a stabilizing presence on the third pairing or serve as an injury replacement when needed. His cap-friendly contract also ensures flexibility for Hughes, who has emphasized maintaining room to maneuver as the Habs prepare for what many believe will be a more competitive 2025–26 season.
Lindström, who has also spent time with AHL affiliates in Laval and Grand Rapids during his North American career, said he was eager to stay in Montreal.
“This is a great city to play in. I’ve learned a lot here, and I feel like there’s unfinished business,” Lindström said through the team’s media relations. “I’m excited to be back and to help this team keep moving forward.”
As the Canadiens head into the offseason with multiple RFAs and potential trades on the horizon, Lindström’s return offers a dose of stability in an otherwise transitional blueline corps.