Boston Bruins Begin Season Against Cup Champions Florida Panthers

The Boston Bruins are preparing to start their 2024-25 NHL season with a high-stakes match against the Florida Panthers, the reigning Stanley Cup champions. The game is set to take place at Amerant Bank Arena, and expectations are high for both teams.

Brad Marchand, a key player for the Bruins, is approaching the match with a professional attitude despite a contentious history with the Panthers. Marchand was injured by Florida’s Sam Bennett in last year’s playoffs, an incident that remains fresh in his memory. “It’s part of the game. He definitely got away with one when you see the replay and everything but that’s how it goes. I’m not holding any animosity…I’m gonna play just as hard as I always do,” Marchand stated after the Bruins’ morning skate.

Looking forward to the new season, Marchand emphasized the importance of focusing on present challenges rather than past grievances. “At the end of the day, this is two points we’re out there to get…it doesn’t matter what you do, nothing changes the past. It’s all about being in the moment, moving forward,” he added.

Despite his calm demeanor, Marchand acknowledged that the game will carry an emotional charge, given the teams’ recent histories. “I wouldn’t say it will be more special, it’s definitely gonna be more intense,” he said. “It’s a great opportunity to have two of the best teams in the league match up against each other.”

The Bruins view the Panthers’ Stanley Cup banner-raising ceremony as a potential motivator. “It’s obviously what we want to get to,” said Marchand, touching on the inspiration it provides. “There’s a long road ahead of us. That’s the goal every year is to watch that banner raise up the following season.”

The Bruins have announced their lineup for the opening game, featuring strong pairings such as Pavel Zacha, Elias Lindholm, and David Pastrnak leading the forward lines. On defense, Hampus Lindholm and Charlie McAvoy will anchor the team.