Bruins leadership took time to thank a franchise icon after the NHL trade deadline.
Boston made franchise-altering moves Friday that were headlined by trading Brad Marchand to the Florida Panthers for a conditional pick. Alternate governor and CEO Charlie Jacobs released a statement Saturday thanking Marchand for what he brought to the franchise.
“In Boston, we’ve been fortunate to witness the rise of generational talent who fostered a culture of excellence within our locker room and led our club to victory,” Jacobs’ statement read. “Brad Marchand, our captain, Stanley Cup champion and Bruin of 16 years, will forever be part of that legacy. While we made our best efforts to keep Brad in black and gold for the rest of his playing career, he now embarks on the next chapter of his journey. We wish him, his wife Katrina and their three children Sloane, Sawyer and Rue the utmost success.
“Cam, Don and the hockey operations team have my full support as they make these very difficult decisions, which we collectively believe will set our franchise up for a new era of success in the future. Our goal remains unchanged: to be a Stanley Cup championship-drive organization. Together, we are changing a course for the next century.”
After receiving support from Jacobs, president Cam Neely voiced a similar message for Marchand.
“Brad wore Black and Gold with a tremendous amount of pride for 16 years,” Neely’s statement read. “He embodied what it means to be Bruin. His dedication and contributions both on and office the ice leave a lasting impact, and I personally wish he, Katrina, Sloane and Swayer and Rue all the best in their next chapter.”
General manager Don Sweeney called Marchand a future Hall of Famer on Friday and again voiced how important the 36-year-old is to the Bruins.
“Being underestimated was all the motivation Brad Marchand needed to work harder than anyone to earn a chance to grow from a bottom-six agitator to NHL superstar,” Sweeney’s statement read. “Then he evolved into a true leader, a captain, an example for all those who aspired to wear the Spoked-B to show them what it takes to compete and win at the highest level and, even more, to do so for the Boston Bruins.
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“On behalf of my family and the entire Bruins organization, I want to thank Brad for all of his contributions as one of the greatest Bruins and to wish he, Katrina, Sloane, Swayer and Rue continued success and happiness. Thank you, Brad.”
Marchand continues to nurse an injury but is expected to play for the Panthers when they begin their Stanley Cup playoff run.
Featured image via Brian Fluharty/Imagn Images
