Brad Marchand Returns to the Stanley Cup Final — This Time as a Panther
Brad Marchand is heading back to the Stanley Cup Final for the first time in five years — but not in the jersey fans are used to seeing him wear. After spending his entire 16-year NHL career with the Boston Bruins, the gritty veteran is now chasing another title with the Florida Panthers.
“I definitely didn’t expect to be here in this jersey,” Marchand said after the Panthers sealed their series victory over the Carolina Hurricanes in Game 5. Speaking to TNT’s Jackie Redmond, he added, “But I’m very happy I am.”
The 36-year-old forward, who contributed an assist in the Panthers’ comeback win on Wednesday night at Lenovo Center, was traded to Florida in March in one of the most surprising moves of the NHL season. Though known for his loyalty to Boston, Marchand now finds himself with a new squad — and a fresh shot at glory.
Having won the Stanley Cup in 2011 and reaching the Final twice more with the Bruins (in 2013 and 2019), Marchand understands just how rare these opportunities are.
“It’s special,” he told reporters. “When you’ve been around for a while, you realize how few opportunities you have to be part of something like this. I’m just enjoying every moment. Grateful for the opportunity.”
Florida’s win over Carolina marked their third consecutive trip to the Stanley Cup Final, and they did it in dramatic fashion — climbing out of a two-goal hole early in the game. For Marchand, who has seen it all, that shift in momentum was key.
“When you’ve been through it before and have gone all the way, you see how the flow of a game can change,” he said. “You recognize those moments when you can seize control and change the outcome.”
Now, the Panthers await the winner of the Edmonton Oilers–Dallas Stars Western Conference Final. Marchand, ever the competitor, knows there’s still unfinished business.
“We haven’t accomplished anything yet,” he said. “The toughest team we’re gonna face is coming up next. If you don’t win that series, then none of this means anything. We’re excited, but it’s just like any other round — there’s a huge job to do. It’s time to lock in.”
Marchand’s presence adds championship pedigree to a Florida team already stacked with talent and postseason experience. His transition from longtime Bruin to Florida Panther might have been unexpected, but for Marchand, it’s another chapter in a decorated career — and another chance to hoist hockey’s most coveted prize.
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