Brad Marchand is on the verge of winning his second Stanley Cup, this time with the Florida Panthers, following his 2011 victory with the Boston Bruins. Despite being traded from Boston less than four months ago, rumors about a potential return to the Bruins have already emerged, fueled by former NHL coach Don Cherry.
During Episode 312 of The Don Cherry’s Grapevine Podcast, Cherry suggested the possibility that the Panthers and Bruins might have arranged a behind-the-scenes agreement regarding Marchand’s contract and future team affiliation.
Maybe (the Panthers and Bruins met and) said, ‘Listen, you sign him for this year. We’ll sign him—we’ll sign them next year,’
Cherry said, implying that a reunion between Marchand and Boston could be planned already.
Marchand’s Impressive Playoff Performance Boosts His Value Ahead of Free Agency
Marchand, 36, is set to become an unrestricted free agent on July 1 after finishing the final year of an eight-year, $49 million contract he signed with Boston in 2016. The Panthers acquired him at the trade deadline in exchange for a conditional draft pick.
Since joining Florida, Marchand has delivered exceptional performances in the playoffs, scoring six goals in the Stanley Cup Final alone. He made NHL history as the first player to score at least five goals in the finals with two separate teams. So far this postseason, he has recorded 10 goals and 10 assists in 22 games, leading all active players with 13 career Stanley Cup Final goals.
Don Cherry and Son Tim Name Marchand Their Top Conn Smythe Candidate
Both Don Cherry and his son Tim selected Marchand as their favorite for the Conn Smythe Trophy during the podcast, highlighting his outstanding contributions on the ice.
You gotta pick one of those guys (Marchand, Sam Bennett, or Sergei Bobrovsky. I would say Marchand,
Tim said. Yeah, Don Cherry agreed.
This would be the toughest one of them all.
Implications of a Potential Deal for Bruins and Panthers
The prospect of a secret agreement between the Panthers and Bruins involving Brad Marchand underscores the intricate strategies NHL teams may use during free agency. If such a deal exists, it could influence the lineups and competitiveness of both franchises moving forward. Marchand’s continued success and high profile make this situation one to watch closely as July approaches and free agency begins.