The Florida Panthers struck gold with their mid-season trade for Brad Marchand, but they might be running short in change to keep the 37-year-old in town after the season. Set to become an unrestricted free agent, there is no team in the NHL Marchand wouldn’t walk right through its doors. Reportedly, it would take a big investment to sign the veteran, though.
Marchand is arguably playing the best hockey of his 16-year NHL career, despite being closer to 40 than 30. The Panthers would love to have the former Boston Bruins captain on their roster for the 2025–26 season—but that’s a sentiment shared across the league.
The Bruins cannot help but feel a little bit fleeced after parting ways with Marchand for a conditional 2nd round pick (now a first-round) in the 2027 Draft. Marchand turned back the clock in Sunrise, recording 18 points so far in the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
With such dominant and timeless performances, Marchand’s value skyrocketed and his name is among the most coveted ahead of the free agency period’s start. As recent reports indicate, Marchand might have already drawn up a sketch of his intended contract,. Where he’ll sign is a whole other story, though.
Brad Marchand #63 of the Florida Panthers walks to the ice before playing the Toronto Maple Leafs in Game Six of the Second Round of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Amerant Bank Arena on May 16, 2025 in Sunrise, Florida
According to reports from insider Chris Johnston, the bidding for Brad Marchand could escalate above the $8M-mark. Johnston added Marchand is likely to sign a four-year deal with his next team.
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Amid Brad Marchand and Sam Bennett buzz, Matthew Tkachuk is reportedly set to lose another star teammate on Panthers
Redemption arc?
Marchand has been the ultimate villain in Toronto, and as every villain, he could redeem himself. After tormenting the Maple Leafs for years, Marchand could don their colors, capping off one of the craziest storylines in NHL history.
The Maple Leafs, though still grieving their latest elimination at Marchand’s hands, would sign him in a heartbeat. And according to the noise around the league, Toronto is in prime position to pounce once—and if—Marchand becomes an UFA.
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“The Maple Leafs’ bet on Brad Marchand in free agency certainly looks like a real option,” as stated by The Athletic insider James Mirtle.
