The Florida Panthers beat the Edmonton Oilers in Sport 2 of the Stanley Cup Last in double time beyond regulation. Their hero was their villain in final yr’s playoff, however could possibly be staying in Dawn for the longer term. Brad Marchand got here to the Panthers on the commerce deadline and is hitting free company on July 1. However he instructed the media earlier than Sport 3 of the Stanley Cup Last that he might see himself staying with the staff.
“Yeah, I’ve considered it. However we’ll take care of that sooner or later,” Marchand stated, per ESPN’s Greg Wyshynski.
Marchand had spent the primary 15.5 years of his profession with the Bruins, taking part in 1090 video games and scoring 976 factors for Boston. They traded their captain to their division rivals after failing to achieve a contract extension earlier than the deadline. The Panthers have gotten the very best out of Marchand in these playoffs, with an epic Sport 7 efficiency in opposition to Toronto and a game-winner on Friday.
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Marchand simply turned 37 years outdated, so his long-term contract hopes are possible dashed. He’s eligible for a bonus-laden contract, reserved for veterans over 35 years outdated. If he’s prepared to signal that, the Panthers might hold him on a really team-friendly deal. However contemplating Boston might have provided him that deal as nicely, he could not signal for a low base wage.
Based on CapWages, the Panthers could have $19 million in cap house this summer time. Aaron Ekblad has expressed his curiosity in staying with the staff, however he could possibly be out because of Seth Jones’ addition on the deadline. Mackie Samoskevich will want a brand new deal, as he’s a restricted free agent. And the large one is Sam Bennett, who might money in massive time if he decides to depart. Marchand might get squeezed out if Bennett decides to remain on a big-money deal.