Brad Marchand significantly boosted his value heading into free agency with his performance over the past four months.
Just a few months ago, in early March, the 37-year-old was captain of the Boston Bruins, a team expected to miss the playoffs for the first time in almost ten years.
Talks with the Bruins, his only NHL team, had stalled, as the club decided to move on from the final remaining leader of the Zdeno Chara-Patrice Bergeron era.
Marchand`s own season seemed average, especially after being one of Canada`s least-utilized forwards at the 4 Nations Face-Off.
However, a trade at the deadline sent him to Florida, offering him a chance to shine in the league`s premier event.
Following crucial performances that led to a championship, Marchand is now a highly sought-after free agent, solidifying his status as an elite clutch player.
During Florida`s Stanley Cup victory, the veteran forward scored the fourth-highest number of goals and the tenth-highest points in the playoffs. Only Leon Draisaitl scored more game-winning goals than Marchand (#63).
His impact was particularly felt in the Stanley Cup Final.
The remarkable veteran scored six goals in six games, contributing significantly to the win over Connor McDavid`s Edmonton Oilers. Only his teammate Sam Reinhart scored more goals in the Final, four of which came in the decisive last game.
NHL insider Elliotte Friedman discussed the futures of pending free agents Sam Bennett, Aaron Ekblad, and Brad Marchand on The FAN Hockey Show, speculating on whether they could remain with the Florida Panthers.
Anna Dua appeared on the FAN Hockey Show to analyze Brad Marchand`s potential free agency destinations and whether his Stanley Cup win with Florida might influence him to stay.
Based on his impressive playoff performance and impending free agency, several teams could be potential destinations for the veteran forward. The article explores six such possibilities.
Neville Woodall 
Duncan Priestley