Will Brad Marchand Return To Bruins After Retirement?
It’s been an emotional week for Brad Marchand and the Boston Bruins. On Tuesday, Marchand returned to TD Garden for the first time since being traded to the Florida Panthers in March.
Marchand, who spent his first 16 NHL seasons with the Bruins, was visibly touched and emotional leading up to and during his return. He spoke highly of Boston and his time there, calling it “the best years of my life.”
Given Marchand’s strong ties to the city and the Bruins organization, many fans are wondering if he’d consider returning to work for his old team someday.
The 37-year-old is in the first season of a six-year extension with the Panthers, so he’s probably going to retire with them. However, he recently said he’s open to rejoining the Bruins after his playing days are over.
“If I’m being completely honest, absolutely. It’s an organization that I feel like I’ll always be a part of in some capacity down the road,” Marchand told Bruins reporter Conor Ryan after Tuesday’s game. “It’d be hard not to want to be involved.”
As a former Bruins captain, Marchand clearly has the leadership qualities needed to be a great coach, instructor or front office assistant. He’s still passionate about the Bruins and doesn’t seem to have any hard feelings about being traded, leaving the door open for a possible reunion down the road.
Based on how Boston welcomed him back, the feeling is mutual. Bruins fans would likely embrace Marchand returning in some capacity and having him back in the building.