Should veteran forward Brad Marchand choose to become a free agent, a reunion with the Boston Bruins might be on the table, according to TSN’s Pierre LeBrun.
LeBrun reported the Bruins and Toronto Maple Leafs “hope to talk to him come Tuesday when the market opens.” Marchand could preclude all of that by reaching an agreement with the Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers before then.
The 37-year-old had 23 goals and 28 assists in 71 appearances between his time with Boston and Florida this past season. During the Panthers’ playoff run, he was one of six players on the team to compile 20-plus points (10 goals, 10 assists).
Marchand brings a lot to the table thanks to his experience. He’s a two-time champion with 16 seasons and 180 career postseason appearances under his belt. The fact he continues to perform at a high level on the ice only adds to his value.
The Athletic’s Chris Johnston reported that Marchand is “not expected to come at a discount” because he has often been paid below market value. That will undoubtedly be a consideration for interested suitors given his age. Committing a lot of years and money to a player in his mid-30s is risky.
Seeking a big payout could complicate a return to Florida when the Panthers have $11 million in available salary cap space. The Panthers prioritized Conn Smythe Trophy winner Sam Bennett, giving him an eight-year, $64 million deal.
General manager Bill Zito has to make some tough decisions this summer with defensemen Aaron Ekblad and Nate Schmidt also eligible for free agency. Letting Marchand walk might be a necessary sacrifice, and it’s clear he’ll have no trouble landing on his feet elsewhere.
