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Tag: Elliotte Friedman

  • Brad Marchand Wins Stanley Cup with Florida Panthers After 17-Year Journey

    Brad Marchand Wins Stanley Cup with Florida Panthers After 17-Year Journey

    Seventeen years after hoisting the Stanley Cup as a member of the Boston Bruins, Brad Marchand did it again — this time with the Florida Panthers, who clinched their first-ever championship in a dominant 5-1 Game 6 win over the Edmonton Oilers.

    Marchand was instrumental in the run. In 23 playoff games, he tallied 10 goals and 10 assists, including a jaw-dropping double-overtime winner in Game 2 of the Final. His leadership, clutch scoring, and veteran presence were key ingredients in Florida’s historic season.

    For many, it felt like poetic justice — a redemption arc that saw Marchand go from being traded at the deadline to becoming a champion just weeks later.

    From Boston to Florida: The Trade That Changed Everything

    Marchand’s departure from Boston wasn’t easy.

    After falling out of favor with management due to salary cap constraints and a desire to rebuild around younger players, the Bruins made the tough decision to trade him at the 2025 deadline. In return, they received a first-round pick, which will either belong to Boston in 2027 or 2028, depending on Florida’s draft plans.

    While some questioned whether Marchand still had what it took to impact a contender, the Panthers knew exactly what they were getting — a proven winner, a locker room leader, and a playoff performer.

    And boy, did he deliver.

    Marchand Reflects on the Win — And What’s Next

    Now a free agent heading into July 1, Marchand is taking a moment to soak in the victory before thinking about the future.

    In a recent interview with SportsNet’s Elliotte Friedman, Marchand admitted:

    “I’ve thought about potential situations. But until you know what options are out there — it’s all theoretical… So I kind of parked all that. Right now, I’m just being in the moment and enjoying it.”

    That mindset isn’t surprising.

    At 37 years old, Marchand has already defied expectations by remaining effective deep into his career. And while he’s earned the right to decide his next move, one thing is clear:

    He’s not done yet.

    A Legacy Cemented

    Winning a second Stanley Cup only solidifies Marchand’s place in NHL history.

    Back in 2011, he was the young firebrand helping lift the Bruins to their first title in nearly four decades.

    This time around, he was the seasoned vet bringing wisdom, energy, and edge to a Panthers team hungry for its first-ever championship.

    His role evolved, but his impact didn’t.

    From gritty forechecks to big-time goals in tight moments, Marchand showed that even at his age, he can still make a difference when it matters most.

    And for fans who once doubted whether he could thrive outside Boston?

    Well, he answered those questions with a resounding yes.

    What’s Next for Marchand?

    There’s no doubt that teams will come calling this summer.

    Marchand remains a valuable contributor, both offensively and in the locker room. He could easily slide into a top-nine forward role on a contender looking for depth and leadership.

    Possible suitors could include:

    • New York Rangers
    • Pittsburgh Penguins
    • Vegas Golden Knights
    • Tampa Bay Lightning

    Or, perhaps, he returns to Florida for one more run — if the Panthers want to bring him back.

    Whatever happens, Marchand will have options.

    And based on how this season ended, he’ll be choosing from a position of strength.

    Final Takeaway: A Champion Once Again — And Not Done Yet

    Brad Marchand’s journey from hometown hero in Boston to playoff catalyst in Florida is the stuff of legend.

    Few players get a chance to rewrite their legacy in a new jersey.

    Even fewer do it by winning another Stanley Cup.

    But Marchand did — and now, as he enters free agency with a ring on his finger, he’s doing something rare in today’s NHL:

    Going out on top.

    And maybe coming back for more.

  • Elliotte Friedman Names Top Candidates to Coach the Bruins Next Season

    Elliotte Friedman Names Top Candidates to Coach the Bruins Next Season

    The Boston Bruins are on the hunt for their next head coach, and if insider Elliotte Friedman is right, they might be leaning toward a first-time NHL bench boss. With the Seattle Kraken and Pittsburgh Penguins also searching for new coaches, the pool of available candidates is shrinking fast—so who’s in the running for the Bruins’ top job?

    A Focus on Up-and-Coming Coaches

    While some big-name coaches have already landed elsewhere, the Bruins seem to be eyeing assistant coaches with impressive resumes but little (or no) NHL head coaching experience. According to Friedman, the leading candidates include:

    • Marco Sturm – A former NHL forward turned assistant coach, Sturm has built a reputation for developing young talent and fine-tuning defensive systems.
    • Jay Leach – Currently a Bruins assistant, Leach has the inside track thanks to his deep ties to the organization and strong relationships with management.
    • Jeff Halpern – Known for his work with forwards and power plays, Halpern’s leadership has reportedly impressed Boston’s decision-makers.
    • Jeff Blashill – The only candidate with previous NHL head coaching experience (Detroit Red Wings), Blashill has spent recent years as an assistant, rebuilding his reputation.

    And don’t sleep on Mitch Love—the Washington Capitals assistant may be new to the NHL, but his success developing players in the AHL (with the Calgary Wranglers) has made him a dark horse in this race.

    Why Jay Leach Might Have the Edge

    Of all the candidates, Jay Leach could be the frontrunner. Having spent last season behind the Bruins’ bench, he already knows the team’s culture, roster, and front office inside out. His existing relationships with GM Don Sweeney and president Cam Neely could give him a leg up—especially if the Bruins value continuity over an outside hire.

    Friedman suggests that while nothing is set in stone, Leach’s familiarity with the organization makes him a logical choice. But with other strong contenders in the mix, the Bruins’ final decision could come down to who best fits their vision for the future.

    Why the Bruins Might Bet on a Rookie Coach?

    The Bruins aren’t just looking for a new head coach—they seem to be searching for the right fit, even if that means handing the reins to someone who’s never held an NHL bench boss job before. Instead of chasing a big-name retread, they’re eyeing fresh voices—coaches who can bring new ideas, adapt to the team’s evolving identity, and grow with the roster.

    This approach makes sense. Whether it’s promoting from within (like Jay Leach) or bringing in an up-and-comer (say, Marco Sturm or Mitch Love), the Bruins appear focused on stability and long-term vision. They’re not looking to blow things up—just to find someone who can work seamlessly with Don Sweeney and Cam Neely to steer the ship forward.

    What’s Next? The Clock is Ticking

    With free agency, the draft, and trade talks heating up, the Bruins don’t have the luxury of dragging out this decision. Their next coach won’t just be calling plays—they’ll be helping shape the roster, setting the tone for the team’s identity, and (ideally) guiding Boston back into true Cup contention.

    It’s a gamble, sure. But sometimes, the best moves aren’t the safest ones. Whether it’s Leach’s familiarity, Love’s player development chops, or another candidate’s untapped potential, the Bruins seem ready to bet on upside. And if they get this right? It could define the franchise’s future.

  • Bruins Hoping for the Best as Brad Marchand Deals with Injury

    Bruins Hoping for the Best as Brad Marchand Deals with Injury

    The Boston Bruins beat the Pittsburgh Penguins but the win came with a cost. Brad Marchand left the game with an upper body injury early in the game and the Bruins and fans are waiting to hear more.

    What Happened to Brad Marchand?

    Marchand was injured on his 3rd shift of the game. While playing the puck in the corner, P.O. Joseph of the Penguins threw a clean check and Marchand’s legs went awkwardly. Marchand hit the boards hard and stayed down in pain before being helped off.

    Joseph was not called for a penalty but later left the game with an upper body injury of his own. Marchand played only 2:18 before he left the game.

    Bruins Hopeful Marchand’s Injury isn’t Serious

    The Bruins didn’t give a full update on Marchand after the game but Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet said there’s reason to believe it’s not serious.

    “They’ll have a better idea tomorrow,” Friedman said. “The good news is nobody is concerned it’s a long-term thing. We’ll see where that goes, hopefully he’s okay.”

    Marchand has 21 goals and 26 assists in 61 games this season and is a big part of the Bruins lineup. His absence would be a major loss as they are fighting for an Eastern Conference wild card spot.

    Marchand’s Role and Trade Rumors

    Marchand’s injury comes at a bad time for the Bruins who are in a tight playoff race and the trade deadline. While Marchand isn’t being shopped, the Bruins are open to listening to offers on their captain.

    He’s a big part of the team and a big producer but his age (35) and contract status makes him a trade target for teams looking for veteran experience.