Brad Marchand Doubles Down on Bruins Loyalty as Trade Deadline Looms
With the NHL trade deadline less than two weeks away, Brad Marchand remains unwavering in his commitment to the Boston Bruins. Despite looming uncertainties, the veteran forward has made it clear he wants to stay in Boston and believes his team has what it takes to make a playoff push.
On Sunday, Bruins GM Don Sweeney acknowledged that all options remain on the table but reinforced the organization’s desire to keep their captain beyond this season. Marchand, 36, is set to become an unrestricted free agent this summer and holds an eight-team no-trade clause.
“We’ve been in ongoing negotiations with Brad and his camp all season,” Sweeney said. “Now that the 4 Nations tournament is behind us, we’ll sit down with him and his representatives to map out a clearer plan over the next two weeks.”
Marchand, however, left no doubt about where his heart lies.
“I’ve always envisioned finishing my career here, and that hasn’t changed,” he reaffirmed. “The organization knows that, the fans know that. Playing for the Bruins is a privilege, and I take a lot of pride in it.”
Talks are ongoing, but Marchand remains focused on the task at hand helping Boston fight for a playoff spot amid a tight race in the standings.
“You can’t waste energy worrying about things beyond your control,” he said. “The team will always make the best decisions for the group, and as players, we just have to focus on competing.”
With the Bruins trailing the second wild-card spot by just one point heading into Tuesday’s game, Marchand is confident in the team’s ability to stay in the hunt.
“We’re right there,” he emphasized. “It’s going to be a battle to the finish, but we have what it takes to get the job done.”
As speculation swirls ahead of the March 7 deadline, one thing is certain Marchand isn’t looking for an exit. Instead, he’s laser-focused on leading Boston into the postseason.
