The Boston Bruins are at a fork in the road. With their playoff hopes on life support and key guys hurt, management has a tough decision to make: honor Brad Marchand’s request to stay in Boston or trade their captain to start a rebuild. Marchand has said he wants to play his whole career with the Bruins but the current situation may force them to move him before the trade deadline.
If the Bruins do trade Marchand, several teams could benefit big time from acquiring the veteran winger. Let’s get into why the Bruins might do this, what Marchand brings to a lineup and which teams should be in.
Why the Bruins Should Trade Marchand
Playoff Chances are Slim
The Bruins are two points from the playoff bubble but their chances are not good. They have 18% chance to make the playoffs and less than 1% chance to win the Stanley Cup. With Charlie McAvoy out indefinitely and Hampus Lindholm possibly done for the season the Bruins don’t have the depth to compete with other teams.
And injuries like Trent Frederic’s recent setback makes things even more complicated. If Frederic is out long term it might push the management to trade Marchand to speed up the retooling process.
Marchand’s Age and Term
At 37 Marchand is getting older. Any multi-year deal would be a risk especially if he retires before it’s up. For a contender though he’s a short term asset. No movement clause—only 8 team no trade list—the Bruins have flexibility to make a deal.
What Marchand Brings to a Lineup?
Versatility and Experience
Marchand’s scoring rate has dipped (2.56 points per 60) but he’s still a versatile player who can play anywhere. He can generate offense, kill penalties, energize his team he’s the perfect piece for a contender looking for that final piece.
Marchand’s playoff experience is unmatched. He’s not the player he used to be but he can still elevate a team’s Cup chances with his leadership, tenacity and ability to perform under pressure.
Room for Revival
Much of Marchand’s decline may be due to lack of top line players in Boston. Playing with top talent could get his game going again even if it’s in a reduced role compared to his Bruins days.
5 Teams That Should Be Interested in Brad Marchand
1. Tampa Bay Lightning
The Lightning have a common enemy with Marchand: the Florida Panthers. Adding Marchand’s grit and skill could be the difference-maker to beat their division rivals.
- Fit: Marchand could play in the middle six, shutdown minutes or secondary scoring.
- Trade challenges: Tampa Bay has limited prospects so the Bruins may need to retain salary or bring in a third party.
2. New Jersey Devils
The Devils need a top-six winger and a third-line center. Marchand could fill the former role and allow Ondrej Palat to slide down the depth chart.
- Fit: With Nico Hischier or Jack Hughes, Marchand could be part of a top-six line.
- Assets: New Jersey has three 2025 second-round picks and young players like Simon Nemec who could interest the Bruins.
3. Edmonton Oilers
Despite offseason additions, the Oilers still need consistent secondary scoring around Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. Marchand could be the secondary scoring they’ve been missing.
- Fit: Marchand would be better in a supporting role in Edmonton where he wouldn’t have to carry the load.
- Trade Challenges: With limited draft capital, Edmonton would likely need to get creative with salary retention.
4. Los Angeles Kings
The Kings are absence game-breakers but have depth. Marchand would add to their top-9 and playoff experience to their forward group.
- Fit: Whether alongside Anze Kopitar or mentoring young players like Quinton Byfield, Marchand would bring versatility and leadership.
- Assets: The Kings have assets to negotiate a good deal.
5. Vegas Golden Knights
Vegas is loading up on center depth and defense, leaving the wings as an area for improvement. Marchand would immediately upgrade their second line.
- Fit: As a left-winger behind Ivan Barbashev, Marchand would add scoring and grit.
- Trade Challenges: Vegas has such a depleted prospect pool they’d likely have to move existing roster players to make a deal.
FAQs About Trading Brad Marchand
Why would the Bruins trade Brad Marchand?
With slim playoff odds and needing to rebuild, trading Marchand would allow the Bruins to get assets for the future and addresses their current problems.
Which teams are most likely to pursue Marchand?
Contenders like the Tampa Bay Lightning, New Jersey Devils , Edmonton Oilers, Los Angeles Kings, and Vegas Golden Knights are the obvious suitors given their needs and cap situations.
What does Marchand bring to a new team?
Marchand has playoff experience, versatility and can play in all situations. He’s a proven player who can help a contender win the Cup.
Can Marchand retire mid contract?
Yes, always with older players. But contenders prioritize short term gains over long term risks when acquiring veterans like Marchand.
How will the Bruins replace Marchand?
Trading Marchand would allow the Bruins to get prospects, draft picks or younger players to aid the rebuild. They have to if they want to be relevant in the future.
