Over the years, no player on the Bruins roster has evolved more than Brad Marchand.
When the Halifax native broke into the league, he was a fourth-line winger known for getting under opponents skin. His draft profile portrayed him as an undersized winger and not a 30-goal scorer. Over the past few seasons, however, Marchand has been much more than that and developed into one of the leagues best players. Despite a disappointing ending last season the 31-year-old will be looking to again join elite company in 2019-2020.
Last season, Marchand was able to reach the 30 goal plateau for the fourth consecutive season. Although his 36 goals were three short of his career-high, he did surpass the 60-point assists mark for the first time in his career. By finishing the season with 64, Marchand was able to reach heights that few Bruins have before.
By reaching 100 points, Marchand became the first Bruins player to reach that mark since Joe Thornton in 2002-2003. He also became the 10th player in team history to accomplish the feat. His impressive numbers did not stop there, as he broke the franchise record for shorthanded goals. With every game, Marchand was seemingly reaching a new historic mark.
Although Marchand’s numbers show the star that he has become, Marchand also showed last year that he grew as a leader. When Zdeno Chara and Patrice Bergeron were lost to injuries in November to the surprise of many Marchand was named an assistant captain. Although the role took some adjustment he played smarter and knew when not to drop the gloves.
Despite a memorable regular season, Marchand ended the 2018-2019 on a disappointing note. The former third-round pick had a solid postseason run but only scored two in goals in the Stanley Cup finals. In-Game seven against St. Louis he made a costly line change that opened up a lane for the Blues to score their second goal of the game which proved to be the game-winner.
Although Marchand can never go back and change that moment, it will only further motivate him this upcoming season. The Bruins will need him at his best, as they are again expected to be one of the league’s best.
As the 2019-2020 campaign approaches the Bruins will be on a mission. Last season’s ending will be a constant reminder regardless of how much time passes. After a summer of rest in a couple of weeks, Marchand and others will get their shot at redemption.
Additionally, with Patrice Bergeron and David Pastrnak, healthy Marchand should get plenty of chances, to reach the 100-point plateau. 31-year-old has already had a memorable career –– but last year showed he is far from done as he climbs the franchise record-boards.
