Bruins coach Jim Montgomery makes adjustments to the lineup for the home opener against the Canadiens

Lindholm is no stranger to this role, having led the club's top quintet on the man advantage in the past, even when McAvoy missed time.

“What I like about Hampus is that he’s direct,” Montgomery said. “He’s trying to get a shot and he wants our net forward and our bumper to win duels at the net.”

Lindholm said his mindset when working on the blue line is simple.

“Try to put the pucks in the net,” he said. “We’ve got some good hitters, some big bodies in there and just put you in a good position to be a shot threat or a dangerous pass.”

Lindholm was a horse against the Panthers, playing nearly 22 minutes, including nearly eight on the penalty kill, one of the Bruins' few bright spots in Sunrise. Boston went 6 for 6 and scored one goal (Pavel Zacha) when it was understaffed.

His ability to play in any situation has made Lindholm one of Boston's most reliable players since his arrival in 2022.

“I've always been like the Swiss Army knife you put me in, and I'll do my best to help the team win hockey games,” Lindholm said. “And we did some good things in the PK, and we'll obviously take that with us tonight. But it's a complete hockey game out there, five-on-five, power play, PK. We want to put on a complete game tonight.”

Tufts inserted

In front, Riley Tufte inserted on the left wing in the third line Max Jones. Although there was no official word from Guinness, Tufte's addition had to make it one of the greatest trios in the NHL.

Tufte checks in at 6 feet 6 inches and 230 pounds while at center Trent Frederick is 6-3, 221 and right wing Justin Brazeau is 6-6, 227.

“Tufte is someone we’re looking for — on par with Frederic and Brazeau — and has that size,” Montgomery said. “He has the ability to overwhelm people down there with their possession and they support each other and he has the ability to make plays. He scored 27 goals in the American League last year and did a really good job in nine games with Colorado. So, playing to his strengths, overpowering people, being heavy, being hard at the net, things that should help him succeed on that line.”

Tufte wants to use that size and speed to disrupt and create.

“Be strict with the pre-check (and make sure you have a presence down below) and just make your presence felt out there, I would say,” Tufte said. “I just want to keep my feet moving. I think I'm very noticeable out there when I'm protecting the puck, so those are some things I can build on as well. Try to stand out every game.”

Poitras is making progress

Matt Poitras ditched his red non-contact jersey and instead wore a gold jersey on a practice line with Jones and Tyler Johnson. “Poitras continues to take the steps we're taking (in rehab),” Montgomery said… Johnson remains on a PTO and “is being patient and sticking with it for now,” the coach said… This was the 762nd meeting between the Original Six franchises, with Montreal holding a 353-294-103-11 margin. The Bruins have a record of 175-142-56-7 at home against the Habs… Song of the Night: “Back in Black” by AC/DC. (It was the home opener, what did you expect?)

Jim McBride can be reached at [email protected]. Follow him @globejimmcbride.