The Great One had a great story about Bruins captain Brad Marchand.
The Great One had a great story about Bruins captain Brad Marchand.
The Boston Bruins currently have a 2-1 series lead over the Toronto Maple Leafs. A significant reason for this has been the play of captain Brad Marchand.
The 35-year-old has been on a heater offensively, posting two goals and six points over the Bruins' first three games. He is also making a significant impact with his scrappy play, much to the dissatisfaction of Sheldon Keefe and the Maple Leafs players.
However, besides making a significant difference with his outstanding production and famous agitating play, Marchand is also being relied on to be the club's top leader, as evidenced by the 'C' on his chest. Replacing Patrice Bergeron is an incredibly difficult task, but No. 63 has stood up to the test big time and is thriving in the role.
Clearly, people around the sport are recognizing Marchand's superb leadership. This includes The Great One. While on TNT, Wayne Gretzky told an incredible story about Marchand.
"One of the great stories I've ever heard in hockey, and there are so many good stories because there are so many great people in it. But I was told by a friend that he went to training camp last year with the rookies for five days and practiced with them to teach them how to be a pro and what it's like to be a Boston Bruin."
Gretzky also went on to give Marchand some big-time praise.
"So, to me, that's the sign of a great captain, and his leadership is untouched. He's just a tremendous, tremendous athlete. And listen, he's a pain in the butt to play against. I'd hate to play against him. He reminds me of Theo Fleury. Remember Theo Fleury? He's not very big, but he had the heart of gold, and that's how Marchand plays. The exact same way."
Clearly, Marchand has made Gretzky a fan with his incredible play and leadership. That's some big-time praise from the NHL's greatest player, and Marchand has absolutely earned it.
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