Brad Marchand Returns to TD Garden in Panthers Jersey After Bruins Trade

BOSTON — Brad Marchand stepped back onto the ice at TD Garden on Tuesday morning, marking his first appearance in Boston as a member of the Florida Panthers following a trade from the Boston Bruins last Friday.

Though Marchand, who is recovering from an upper-body injury, was inactive for the game against his former team, he participated in an 11-minute morning skate with the Panthers. Wearing a white practice jersey with the Florida logo, he expressed the mixed emotions tied to being back in the arena where he spent 16 years.

“That was the first time I’ve put the jersey on,” Marchand said. “It felt weird and odd being out there, understanding new drills and the way guys are out there.”

This morning skate was not his first experience as a visitor at TD Garden. Marchand previously suited up for Canada during the 4 Nations Face-Off, but this time felt notably different. “It wasn’t as uncomfortable as I was walking in that day, but definitely still a different feeling,” he said. “But it was great to get out there with them and start that process.”

Marchand, who has 21 goals and 26 assists this season, was traded for a conditional second-round pick in the 2027 NHL Draft, which could escalate to a first-round pick based on playoff success. He has been sidelined since March 1, when he sustained his injury against the Pittsburgh Penguins. Panthers coach Paul Maurice mentioned that Marchand’s absence is week-to-week, emphasizing the importance of conditioning as he works his way back.

“We wanted him to get on the ice and move some pucks around just to see where he was at,” Maurice said, referring to Tuesday’s practice as “the positive part for legs and conditioning.”

Despite the negotiations that led to his departure, Marchand expressed gratitude toward Boston’s management. “They’re doing what’s right for the guys in the room. They can’t choose one guy over the 20 guys,” he stated, choking up as he acknowledged his deep connection to the city. “My love for the city and the will to want to be here has never changed,” Marchand said.

The transition has not been easy for Marchand, who is also adjusting to life in Florida with his family. He shared the challenge of moving during an NHL career filled with relocations. “You don’t realize how fortunate you are sometimes,” he said.

Looking ahead, Marchand is focusing on the opportunities that lie with the Panthers, a team that offers a chance to contend for the Stanley Cup. He reflected on past disappointments and highlighted the need to seize the moment. “When you have an opportunity like this in front of you, you can’t waste a day.”

As Marchand prepares to integrate into his new team, he is determined to maintain his personality and leadership style. “I think we have a lot of different personalities. It’s not all the same guy,” Maurice added, encouraging him to be himself. Marchand reiterated this sentiment, stating, “I wouldn’t be able to do that anyways.”

With the playoffs on the horizon, Marchand aims to put his best foot forward as he transitions into this new chapter of his career with the Florida Panthers.