"How can I make less than Lindholm?": John Buccigross speculates Brad Marchand's impending Boston Bruins contract extension

ESPN analyst and broadcaster John Buccigross speculated on Brad Marchand's upcoming contract extension with the Boston Bruins. Marchand is currently in the final year of his eight-year, $49 million deal.

Given his impressive performance, Buccigross emphasized that Marchand shouldn't expect a pay cut from his current AAV of $6.125 million. He praised Marchand for his leadership qualities, referring to him as one of the top captains in the league.

Speculating on Brad Marchand's contract with the Bruins, Buccigross posted on X:

"My guess is the Bruins want 2 years max. I would give him 3 years, 6 million AAV. I think that's 'the deal.' The Bruins probably want 2 years at 4-5 million. Maybe Marchand is like 'how can I make less than Lindholm? He has 18 points. I'm the second best player on the team.' And he'd be right."

"But this deal gets him close to 100 million in career earnings and then takes it one year at a time if he wants to play until he's 42 like Recchi did. He's a unique hockey treasure. Still a very good player who contributes just about every tangible and intangible skill. He should get a 3 year deal," he added.

The analyst also noted that if the Bruins want to create cap space, they should not look to subtract players like Charlie McAvoy, David Pastrnak, or Marchand.

Earlier in October, there were rumors about Brad Marchand and the Bruins agreeing on a three-year extension. However, Marchand denied all the rumors, putting an end to the speculation at the time.

---

Brad Marchand scores point hat trick in win against Capitals

On Monday, the Boston Bruins defeated the Washington Capitals 4-1 at TD Garden. Jakub Vrana was the lone scorer for the Caps in the matchup.

Justin Brazeau scored the opening goal for the Bruins on the power play at 19:12 of the first period. In the third period, the home team scored three goals, thanks to Elias Lindholm, Charlie Coyle, and captain Brad Marchand.

Marchand had an outstanding game on the night, contributing three points for his team. The 36-year-old has racked up 30 points through 15 goals and as many assists in 36 games this season. Notably, this is Marchand's 16th season in the NHL with the Boston Bruins.