Brad Marchand's playoff dominance sparks free agency buzz as Panthers push for Stanley Cup glory
Brad Marchand expiring contract sparks interest from teams like the Toronto Maple Leafs (Getty Images)
Brad Marchand is making waves this postseason—not just with his clutch performances, but also with the growing intrigue surrounding his future in the NHL. Traded from the Boston Bruins to the Florida Panthers at the deadline, the 37-year-old veteran has become an unexpected star of the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs, and the buzz around his next move is only getting louder.
Brad Marchand's postseason performance proves he's still a difference-maker
Few could've predicted just how valuable Brad Marchand would be for Florida. In just 19 games, the seasoned winger has notched 17 points, including seven goals and 10 assists. More importantly, he's delivered when it matters most, scoring two game-winning overtime goals—one of them sealing a crucial victory in Game 2 of the Stanley Cup Final.
That goal not only lifted the Panthers but also cemented Marchand's place in the record books.
With his Game 2 winner, Marchand now holds the most career Stanley Cup Final goals among active NHL players, pulling ahead of Corey Perry, Ondrej Palat, and Evgeni Malkin. The NHL Network highlighted his achievement, which showcases his ability to perform under pressure, even as he approaches 40.
Free agency looms as Maple Leafs reportedly express interest
With Marchand's contract set to expire—an eight-year, $49 million deal signed in 2016—the speculation around his next destination is heating up.
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The Toronto Maple Leafs are among the teams reportedly interested in acquiring the veteran, but Marchand hasn't ruled out staying with the Panthers.
Speaking to ESPN's Greg Wyshynski, Marchand addressed the uncertainty surrounding his free agency, stating: 'Yeah, I've thought about it. But we'll deal with that in the future… There are teams where that absolutely matters. It doesn't matter for every player, but when you're dealing with guys that have a choice between multiple teams, it absolutely plays a part.
If you have two teams that are offering the same contract, you're going to pick the team with less tax.
'
Also Read:
Brad Marchand's sudden future doubts ignite Leafs, Oilers bidding war and leave Panthers in limbo
As the Panthers prepare for Game 3 of the Stanley Cup Final against the Edmonton Oilers, Marchand remains a central figure in their quest for a title. The puck drops Monday night at 8 p.m. EST at Amerant Bank Arena—and all eyes will be on Marchand, both for what he'll do next on the ice and where he'll land this offseason.
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