Boston Bruins captain Brad Marchand is at the center of the rumors as his contract winds down. With the Bruins struggling to make the playoffs and Marchand’s contract expiring, fans want answers on whether their fiery leader will be back in Boston beyond this season. Here’s everything you need to know about Marchand’s situation, his comments and what it means for the franchise going forward.
Marchand Says “I’ve Always Planned on Playing Here My Entire Career”
During Monday’s media availability, Brad Marchand addressed the swirling rumors surrounding his future with the Bruins. While he acknowledged negotiations are ongoing, he said he knows where he stands personally.
“We’re in talks,” Marchand said. “I feel like I know where I’m at personally. But again, that’s gonna stay between us.”
Marchand went on to say he’s not going anywhere.
“I’ve always planned on playing here my entire career. That hasn’t changed. You know, they’re aware of that. Everyone’s aware of that. It’s a gift to be playing for this team and I take a lot of pride in it. So, yeah, that’s always been the goal.”
Despite his words, Marchand is a pending unrestricted free agent (UFA) at the end of the season. His eight year, $49 million deal expires at the end of the year and both sides are running out of time to get a deal done before the trade deadline.
Bruins GM Weighs In
Bruins GM Don Sweeney spoke to the media over the weekend and confirmed that talks with Marchand are underway. No details on the terms or timeline of a potential extension yet.
The Bruins are out of the playoff picture (1 point behind Ottawa and Columbus for the final wild card spot) so the front office has a tough decision to make. Do they sign Marchand or trade him to a contender for assets?
The Trade Rumor Mill
Brad Marchand’s name has been floated in trade rumors and he’s even was No. 10 on TSN’s Chris Johnston’s latest trade board. No indication the Bruins are looking to move their captain but several contenders could be interested if Boston decides to sell.
Marchand’s resume:
- Playoff Experience: 157 career playoff games with 138 points (56 goals, 82 assists)
- Championship Pedigree: Won the Stanley Cup with Boston in 2011, the World Cup of Hockey with Canada in 2016 and the 2025 4 Nations Face-Off with Team Canada
He’s a guy who elevates his game in big situations so he’s a target for teams looking to make a deep run.
Bruins’ Playoff Push
The Bruins are 27-24-7 and just a point behind the Senators and Blue Jackets for the final wild-card spot in the East. Every game matters now and Marchand’s leadership will be huge as Boston tries to extend its season.
Tuesday night the Bruins host the Toronto Maple Leafs at the Garden, 7 p.m. EST. A win would be a big boost to the playoff hopes and maybe ease some of the tension around Marchand’s future.
FAQs About Brad Marchand
Is Brad Marchand leaving the Boston Bruins?
Not necessarily. Marchand wants to finish his career in Boston but nothing is guaranteed until a new contract is signed.
When does Brad Marchand’s contract expire?
His current deal expires at the end of the 2024-25 season making him a pending UFA.
Why are people talking about trading Brad Marchand?
As a pending UFA with so much value he could bring back a lot in a trade. If the Bruins miss the playoffs they may move him to rebuild for the future.
How good has Marchand been this season?
At 36 he’s still playing at a high level, 45 points (20 goals, 25 assists) in 58 games this season.
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