As the NHL season progresses into its second month, the league is witnessing a blend of past performers and new faces keen on establishing their impact. The summer's notable free-agent signings have begun to solidify their roles within their chosen teams. With the dust settling, it is an opportune moment to evaluate how some of the most talked-about acquisitions are faring in their new environments.

Elias Lindholm of the Boston Bruins has experienced a cautious start to the season with only two goals and nine assists across 17 games. Although he is gradually gaining momentum, with four points in his last seven contests, his offensive output does not yet meet expectations. His performance is not the primary issue for Boston, but it does contribute to a broader concern regarding overall productivity on the ice. Therefore, Lindholm's grade reflects a work-in-progress scenario at this stage.

In contrast, Nikita Zadorov's integration into the Bruins' defensive unit raises questions about team strategy. Signed to a six-year, $30 million contract, Zadorov finds himself racking up 29 penalty minutes, an alarming statistic given the Bruins' need for stability on the blue line. His on-ice persona is commendable, and he possesses the traits of a solid second or third pairing defenseman. However, the allocation of resources towards Zadorov has led to concerns about the Bruins' overall roster construction, resulting in a lower emphasis on his individual performance.