“A part that nobody enjoys” – Brad Marchand drops major hint on Jeremy Swayman’s Bruins future amid contract standoff – Source: Imagn
Boston Bruins captain Brad Marchand hinted at RFA netminder Jeremy Swayman’s situation. Marchand spoke to the media following Tuesday’s practice. When reporters asked Marchand about the contract standoff, he said:
“This is part of the game, it’s part of the business. It’s a part that nobody enjoys.”
However, Marchand remained optimistic:
“Eventually a deal is gonna get done and everybody is gonna move on and be fine.”
Marchand’s optimism is crucial at this point. The Bruins are surrounded by significant uncertainty, especially with Joonas Korpisalo looking like the starting goaltender heading into opening night.
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Marchand added the following comments:
“Once it’s signed (the new contract), there’s so much weight, not so much the player’s shoulders, but the team.”
“Then, it’s all about coming together and finding a way to win,” he concluded.
Marchand was adamant about the team wanting Swayman back on the ice. He reiterated that Swayman was a key part of the team’s success. Judging from Marchand’s comments, the Bruins are eager to get a deal done and put the situation behind them.
In the meantime, the team will need to move forward without its No. 1 goalie as opening night draws closer.
Brad Marchand moving forward by hitting the ice
Brad Marchand has missed the Bruins’ first batch of preseason games for various offseason procedures. He underwent surgery for his elbow, groin and abdomen. Marchand looks to enter this season fully healthy and ready to contribute.
NHL.com quoted Marchand, saying:
“I feel really good. Much better than I did a month ago. I’m really excited about getting back out there with the guys. It’s been a hard road, and it’s kind of mentally tough not being ready coming into camp, but really happy with the progression.”
Marchand had been hampered by nagging injuries throughout last season. Nevertheless, he suited up for all of Boston’s 82 games. Despite the courage to push through injuries, questions emerged about his effectiveness.
Hopefully, the lingering issues are a thing of the past. The Bruins need Marchand at this best as the prospect of starting the season without Jeremy Swayman becomes increasingly likely.
Marchand will look to form a potent top line with newcomer Elias Lindholm at center and superstar David Pastrnak. The trio could be poised for a big season if healthy.
The Bruins will be looking to dethrone the Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers in the Atlantic Division while keeping the Toronto Maple Leafs at bay. It will be an interesting season for the Bruins as they seek the club’s first cup since 2011.
