The Boston Bruins made several trades leading up to the March 7 deadline, but none were more significant than the deal that sent Brad Marchand to the Florida Panthers. This officially marked the end of an amazing era in Bruins history.
On March 8, Bruins CEO Charlie Jacobs, Bruins president Cam Neely, and Bruins GM Don Sweeney all released statements thanking Marchand for his incredible 16-year tenure with the Bruins.
"In Boston we've been fortunate to witness the rise of generational talent who fostered a culture of excellence within our locker room and led our club to victory," Jacobs said. "Brad Marchand, our captain, Stanley Cup championship and Bruin of 16 years, will forever be a part of that legacy. While we made our best efforts to keep Brad in black and gold for the rest of his playing career, he now embarks on the next chapter of his journey. We wish him, his wife Katrina and their three children Sloane, Sawyer and Rue the utmost success."
Jacobs then expressed confidence in Neely and Sweeney running the show in Boston.
"Cam, Don and the hockey operations team have my full support as they make these very difficult decisions, which we collectively believe will set our franchise up for a new era of success in the future. Our goal remains unchanged: to be a Stanley Cup Championship-drive organization. Together, we are changing a course for the next century."
While speaking about Marchand, Neely said that the No. 63 was a true Bruin.
"Brad wore the Black and Gold with a tremendous amount of pride for 16 years," Neely said in his statement. "He embodied what it means to be a Bruin. His dedication and contributions both on and off the ice leave a lasting impact, and I personally wish he, Katrina, Sloane, Sawyer, and Rue all the best in the next chapter."
As for Sweeney, he highlighted Marchand's journey to becoming a star for the Bruins and how motivational the former captain was.
"Being underestimated was all the motivation Brad Marchand needed to work harder than anyone to earn a chance to grow from a bottom-six agitator to NHL superstar,” Sweeney said in his statement. “Then he evolved into a true leader, a captain, an example for all those who aspired to wear the Spoked-B to show them what it takes to compete and win at the highest level and, even more, to do so for the Boston Bruins."
Sweeney added:
"On behalf of my family and the entire Bruins organization, I want to thank Brad for all of his contributions as one of the greatest Bruins and to wish he, Katrina, Sloane, Swayer and Rue continued success and happiness. Thank you, Brad."
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