Brad Marchand was one of the NHL’s best storylines to follow in 2024-25.
The longtime Boston Bruin and captain at the time reached a stalemate in contract negotiations with his forever team and was shockingly dealt to the rival Florida Panthers in the final hours leading up to the trade deadline.
As if all of that wasn’t crazy enough, the veteran winger went on to play a massive role in the Cats repeating as Stanley Cup Champions, producing 20 points (10 goals, 10 assists) while chipping in on a plethora of clutch moments throughout the run.
When all was said and done, many believed that Marchand, a pending UFA, would price himself out of Florida after the season. However, Bill Zito made it all work, much to the surprise of Marchand himself. Panthers reporter Jordan McPherson shared some of his comments on X (formerly Twitter).
“I did not expect to be a Panther this year if I’m being completely honest. I just didn’t think that it could work with everybody. So the fact that they were able to make it work and Bill called and told me that he wanted to make it work, I was ecstatic,” Marchand said.
Brad Marchand: “I did not expect to be a Panther this year if I’m being completely honest. I just didn’t think that it could work with everybody. So the fact that they were able to make it work and Bill called and told me that he wanted to make it work, I was ecstatic.”
— Jordan McPherson (@J_McPherson1126) September 17, 2025
The 37-year-old ended up signing a six-year, $31.5 million contract extension with the Panthers just before reaching free agency this summer.
Marchand isn’t stopping anytime soon
Many around the hockey world were surprised to see Brad Marchand get so much term on his contract extension in Florida, particularly given that he’s in his late thirties.
The six-year deal could take Marchand until he’s 43, and he plans on following through on that commitment.
“I want to play until I get kicked out of the league,” Marchand said.
You’re going to have to drag Marchand out of the NHL before he retires. pic.twitter.com/lTYO48uvKc
— Spittin’ Chiclets (@spittinchiclets) September 17, 2025
He’s long been the player every fan base besides the team that has him hates; however, after last year, it’s hard not to love Marchand and everything he brings on and off the ice. Well, maybe it is if you’re a Toronto Maple Leafs fan.
The focus now shifts to helping the Panthers attempt to make history in 2025-26 and become the sixth team ever to win three straight Stanley Cups.
