Florida Panthers forward Brad Marchand will become an unrestricted free agent on July 1, and when he addressed the media for the first time as a member of the Panthers, he left the door open to a potential return to the Boston Bruins.
Although the veteran winger has expressed openness to returning to Boston, former NHL coach Don Cherry doesn't think that's realistic.
Marchand was traded to the Florida Panthers just minutes before the NHL trade deadline on March 7, ending his 16-year tenure with the Bruins. He was in his first season as team captain and had posted 21 goals and 26 assists in 61 games before the move.
The Bruins retained 50% of Marchand's salary in the trade. He's about to complete his eight-year, $49 million deal.
Since arriving in Florida, Marchand has spoken fondly of Boston and left the possibility of a reunion on the table.
"I don't know what the future brings," Marchand said about his upcoming free agency. "Can things change down the road? Potentially, but that's to be seen. I would still love-like, (the trade) doesn't change my love for the city, and the will to want to be here has never changed."
Despite that, Cherry poured cold water on the idea of a return when addressing the topic during Sunday's episode of "The Don Cherry's Grapevine Podcast."
"There's no way," Cherry said. "But it sounds good, doesn't it?"
Cherry also noted Florida's tax benefits as a reason Marchand might stay in the Sunshine State, saying, "No tax. Make some extra money."
Marchand, 36, has one goal and two assists in nine games with Florida and said he's focused on the present, having just scored his first one for the Panthers on Thursday night.
"I'm just enjoying this whole journey," Marchand said. "It's such a unique experience for myself and I've been part of really good teams that have accomplished big things and some that haven't.
"Regardless, what you realize is that these opportunities are very few and far between, and you've got to enjoy every day in this league. And I'm having a lot of fun right now."
