NHL Rumors: Brad Marchand's Bruins future unclear as insider claims team in "no rush" to extend captain's contract

Brad Marchand's future with the Boston Bruins remains uncertain as NHL insider Nick Kypreos reported the organization is in "no rush" to extend the captain's contract. Marchand is currently in an eight-year deal worth $6.125 million per season. This contract will end after the 2024-25 season, which comes as Marchand moves into the later years of his career.

So far in the 2024-25 season, Marchand has played seven games, with 0 goals and four assists for a total of four points. His plus/minus rating is -3, and he has eight penalty minutes. Over his career, he has played 1,036 games, scoring 401 goals and making 532 assists for a total of 933 points. His career plus/minus rating is +289, and he has accumulated 1,059 penalty minutes.

The recent contract standoff with goalie Jeremy Swayman has shifted the Bruins' focus. Kypreos suggests that Boston's management is not eager to negotiate with Marchand.

"Coming off a lengthy Jeremy Swayman contract standoff, it appears the Bruins are in no rush to address their captain’s soon-to-be expiring contract," Kypreos said via The Toronto Star.

"Brad Marchand, at age 36, is finishing a team-friendly deal worth $6.1 million per season. I’m wondering if President Cam Neely has 25 or 30 million reasons for Marchand to want to stick around," he added.

In the coming months, many will pay attention to how the Bruins deal with Marchand's situation. If he keeps playing well, the team might consider offering him an extension. However, if the Bruins struggle or decide to change direction, Marchand could become a trade asset.

Jim Montgomery's confrontation with Brad Marchand raises concerns amid contract talks

Bruins coach Jim Montgomery had an unexpected moment with captain Brad Marchand during a recent game. Montgomery criticized Marchand openly and made physical contact, which caught many off guard.

NHL insider Elliotte Friedman noted that these confrontations are uncommon, suggesting there might be deeper issues between them.

“You don’t see coaches yell at players like that on the bench much anymore,” Friedman said via the '32 Thoughts Podcast.'"

Some analysts believe the exchange may affect their working relationship amid contract negotiations. Montgomery has a history of calling out key players, which sometimes increases pressure on the player and team.

Fans will hope the Bruins can get back to winning ways when they host the Dallas Stars at TD Garden on Friday.