Brad Marchand’s trade from the Boston Bruins to the Florida Panthers is definitely one of the most surprising deals in the NHL. He really did spend 16 seasons with the Bruins, and it’s tough to see them having to trade their star player and captain. The team is gearing up for a rebuild after a disappointing 2024-25 season where they missed out on the postseason, finishing with a record of 33-39-10 and landing at the bottom of the Eastern Conference.

“You know, I’ve had an incredible run in that organization and I’m extremely proud. Just how things went there. Sorry. So, yeah, it was very disappointing that things didn’t get done just because, obviously, I love the organization,” Marchand said, getting a bit emotional as he showed up in his Panthers gear for the press conference.

At first, a lot of fans thought it was pretty strange. But now that they’ve seen Marchand flourish under Florida. Well, the forward’s stats really tell the story. So far in the postseason, Brad Marchand has racked up 3 goals, 9 assists, and a total of 12 points, really stepping up as a key player for the Panthers. It definitely took a bit for Marchand to find his groove.

So, Jameson Olive shared something interesting on X about the Panthers forward. He had a pretty honest take on his teammate, Niko Mikkola, saying, “I really did not like playing against him. … I love Mikksy. He’s a great teammate. Very fun to be around.” And now, what does he mean?

When Marchand and Mikkola were on opposite teams, they really had some intense battles. Back in March 2024, there was quite a scene when Marchand, who was playing for the Boston Bruins at the time, got into a bit of a scuffle with Mikkola. Even though Mikkola is 6’4″, the showdown really brought out the competitive vibe in their matchups.

Things took a turn when Marchand got traded to the Panthers, just a year later. Looking back on this change, Marchand shared his relief and gratitude for being on the same side as Mikkola now. However, there has been a certain locker room effect, owing to the presence of Marchand.

Florida Panthers coach confirms the Brad Marchand effect

“You guys won’t like hearing this, but there’s a Brad Marchand effect there,” Paul Maurice said after the 2025 Stanley Cup Eastern Conference Semifinal Game 7 against the Toronto Maple Leafs. The coach highlighted the mindset that Marchand brought with him after the trade.

Also, Maurice mentioned, “There is. And that’s a [Anton] Lundell score tonight, a roll off the slot hole. And he’s affected those guys in such a positive way about thinking about the game and the small-area plays. And I felt those two young guys had it in them, but the role that I gave them stunted them. I wouldn’t let them do that.”

The coach’s statement was clear. Players like Lundell, who scored in Game 7 against the Maple Leafs, found the net just like someone like Brad can. Maurice said it’s something that only he can bring to the team. Marchand’s contribution to the Panthers is really huge and super important! So, here we are! They’re up against the Carolina Hurricanes in the Eastern Conference Final, and it’ll be interesting to see just how much of an impact Marchand will have in these games.