Brad Marchand makes his feelings known about being in the company of Bruins greats Orr, Esposito, others at Centennial ceremony

By Abhilasha Aditi

Modified Dec 02, 2024 04:44 GMT

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Brad Marchand stood at center ice during the Boston Bruins’ centennial ceremony, surrounded by franchise legends. Willie O’Ree, Bobby Orr, Phil Esposito, and others proudly represented the team’s long history. As the final introduction came, it wasn’t a retired star but Marchand, the current Bruins captain, joining them.

Marchand described the moment as surreal. Seeing the legends he idolized reminded him of the team’s legacy.

"It really hit me (Saturday) when I was sitting there at the unveiling of the bear (statue) and kind of looked over and they were all sitting. I was like, ‘This is insane,’" he said.

Despite his success, Marchand admitted feeling nervous around those iconic names.

“Literally, the guys that I idolized and still idolize and get nervous around even today when they’re here in the building and get to see them. It is really special to be able to be in their company and be in events with them. Never would have ever dreamed of being part of something like that with them on the ice. So, very, very honored and proud to be part of it,” Marchand continued.

Marchand has spent his entire 16-year NHL career with Boston. He ranks fourth in franchise goals and fifth in points. He feels honored to achieve so much while wearing the same jersey.

“That’s what’s so great is when you’re part of this group, you’re part of it for life,” he added.

When Brad Marchand retires, another tribute seems certain. For now, Marchand cherishes moments like this, standing with the legends who shaped the team’s identity.

Brad Marchand and the Bruins are trying to stay competitive

Brad Marchand was named the Boston Bruins captain on September 20th, 2023. He led the Boston Bruins to a successful playoff campaign and even defeated the Maple Leafs to go into the second round. But things fell apart as the Florida Panthers eliminated them after a 2-1 loss in Game 6.

Marchand held on to his responsibilities by contributing to the team offensively with 29 goals and 38 assists for 67 points. However, his plus-minus fell from 27 in 2022-23 to nearly two last season. This 2024-25 season, Marchand has scored eight goals with nine points in 26 games.

But this season Boston's offensive productivity has gone down as they are struggling to score. However, they have performed better in two of the last three games, defeating both the Canadians and Islanders with a 6-3 scoreline. Boston currently has a 12-11-3 record and is 3rd in the Atlantic Division.