Bruins Star David Pastrnak Talks About Facing Off Against Former Teammate And Panthers Star Brad Marchand

As Brad Marchand gears up for his first full season with the Florida Panthers following his six-year, $5.25 million extension, he'll be going up against familiar foes and teammates he used to go into battles with.

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Before Marchand signed a contract which likely insinuates he finishes his career in Florida, he took part in 16 seasons with the Boston Bruins. In Boston, Marchand recorded 422 goals and 976 points in 1090, winning a Stanley Cup in 2011. Marchand was more than a fan favorite in Boston, and captained the team in his final two seasons.

The Bruins were able to extend their window to win due to Marchand's play and ability to defy father time, but the 2024-25 season finally caught up to the Bruins. They were out of a playoff spot when the trade deadline rolled around, and although there were conflicting reports about what they would do with the 37-year-old Marchand, they ultimately traded him to the Panthers.

His arrival in Florida was everything the Panthers organization could have hoped for. His personality meshed well with the current players, and his performance during the playoffs was outstanding, as he recorded 10 goals and 20 points in 23 games.

Although he now has experience playing away from Boston, the regular season will still likely present several challenges, including an emotionally charged game when the Panthers visit Boston on Oct. 21.

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Marchand will be overcome with emotions as previous players in his situation have, but former teammate David Pastrnak is looking forward to taking on his new foe. In an interview with Hokej.cz’s Dominik Dubovči, Pastrnak spoke about the upcoming matchup.

"I wrote him congratulations on the Cup. We played a big part of our careers together, and our wives are also great friends," said Pastrnak. "The bond is there, so of course it was difficult to see him leave. I’m not happy about the Stanley Cup for Florida, but I am happy for Marchand. Then, when he signed a big contract, I kind of let him know that I would make the first game against us a little difficult for him. I am looking forward to it. We always had tough battles together, even in practice.”

Pastrnak is one of the elite forwards in the NHL, someone with whom Marchand formed a formidable duo on and off the ice. It'll be interesting to see how the game develops and what shenanigans Marchand may get himself into against his former team.