Brad Marchand is two wins away from a second Stanley Cup title — and two weeks away from free agency.
The former Boston Bruins captain is still delivering on the game’s biggest stage, but in a Florida Panthers sweater. His eight playoff goals and plus-15 rating are helping push Florida toward a championship repeat, and his postseason résumé only grows with each game. On the ice and in the locker room, his influence is undeniable.
Panthers head coach Paul Maurice called Marchand “an exceptional man,” as shared by Tara Sullivan of The Boston Globe.
“I’ve really enjoyed having him,” Maurice told reporters.
Plenty of Bruins fans likely still feel the same. Marchand’s legacy as a Bruin is untouchable — a Cup winner in his rookie year, a constant presence in every major category from games played to goals scored, and a longtime link to a winning era alongside Patrice Bergeron.
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Now, the question is whether the Bruins will try to bring him home.
Marchand’s contract expires July 1, and while no extension was reached during the season, a return to Boston would carry obvious appeal.
But general manager Don Sweeney and new head coach Marco Sturm have made it clear the team is moving forward. Sturm said during his introductory press conference that the franchise must be led by a “new group,” adding, “these guys are not here anymore.”
That forward-thinking approach is understandable. Florida can slot Marchand into a third-line role amid a deep, balanced roster. Boston would likely lean on him as a top-line presence again, with all the leadership, production and responsibility that entails. It is a lot to ask of a 37-year-old, even one playing this well.
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Marchand is not closing any doors. But as his postseason heroics continue, it may make more sense for the Bruins to celebrate his career from afar — and welcome him back later, when his jersey is raised to the rafters.