Hampus Lindholm is one step closer to rejoining the Anaheim Ducks.
One big step, actually.
Fresh off securing his work visa, Lindholm took part in Anaheim’s practice on Tuesday and could be made available when the Ducks take on the Blue jackets tomorrow.
“Whenever they want to put me in, I’m ready,” he said today, per the Ducks’ Twitter account. “I’m ready, I feel comfortable.”
The 22-year-old rearguard signed a six-year, $31.5 million deal at the end of October, ending what had been a lengthy contract squabble. He’s missed the 13 games of the year, during which the Ducks went 6-5-2.
A crucial part of Anaheim’s defense, Lindholm scored a career-high 10 goals last year, finishing with 28 points. He averaged 22 minutes per game during the regular season, then saw that bumped to 23:34 during an opening-round playoff loss to Nashville.
If Lindholm doesn’t play in Columbus, he probably won’t have to wait long for his season debut. The Ducks are right back in action the following night in Carolina, then wrap their three-game road swing with a date in Nashville on Saturday.