The Bruins Would Be Making A Mistake If They Traded Away This Star Forward

The team faces the challenge of maneuvering within the salary cap as they currently have only 15 players under contract for the upcoming season. Notably, Taylor Hall, Matt Grzelcyk, and Linus Ullmark, a Vezina Trophy favorite, have been linked to potential trades. However, there is one player whose departure should never be considered: Brad Marchand. Trading Marchand would be a grave error for the Bruins, and here's why.

Marchand, at 35 years old, remains a vital asset to the Bruins. He is not only one of the team's elite offensive players but also a notorious antagonist on the ice, a player every team wants on their side and their opponents despise. Despite undergoing double hip surgery last summer, Marchand made a remarkable comeback, returning earlier than expected and leading the team with 10 points in the first-round series against the Florida Panthers. Last season, he tallied 67 points in 73 games, displaying his offensive prowess and solidifying his role as a leader in the team's offense.

However, Marchand's value extends far beyond his offensive contributions. He is a multifaceted player who excels in all aspects of the game. Marchand is the Bruins' all-time leader in shorthanded goals with 33, showcasing his prowess on the penalty kill. Additionally, he plays a crucial role in the team's power play and ranks seventh all-time in power-play points with 208. Marchand's impact on the Bruins cannot be understated.

Over the course of his career, Marchand has evolved from a super pest into a leader, symbolizing the transformation of the Bruins' culture. With or without Patrice Bergeron, Marchand has spent a decade playing alongside one of the greatest two-way players in the game, benefiting immensely from Bergeron's mentorship. As the Bruins face a potential transition, Marchand will likely assume a more prominent role in upholding the winning culture established by former captain Zdeno Chara and Bergeron. Marchand's two-year contract extension with a $6.125 million cap hit further exemplifies his commitment to the team.

During the playoffs, when Bergeron was sidelined, Marchand stepped up as a leader. He refrained from undisciplined penalties and distractions, setting a positive example for his teammates. Such performances demonstrate why Marchand is a strong candidate to become the next Bruins captain when Bergeron eventually retires.

Marchand's legacy with the Bruins is undeniable. With 947 games played, he is on track to become the eighth player in franchise history to reach the 1,000-game milestone. His 862 career points rank seventh all-time for the Bruins, while his playoff numbers are equally impressive, ranking second in both goals and points. Marchand's contributions to the team have solidified his status as one of the all-time greats, and it would be preposterous to see him in any other team's jersey. Marchand is a Bruin for life, and trading him would be an egregious mistake.

Source: Thehockeywriters