Boston Bruins Legend Stands by Former Teammate Brad Marchand, Cheering Him On Passionately Despite His Move to Rival Florida Panthers—Proving True Loyalty Transcends Team Colours and Fierce Rivalries
Brad Marchand’s stellar playoff performance this season has been impossible to ignore — even if he’s no longer wearing the familiar black-and-gold of the Boston Bruins. After 16 memorable years in Boston, Marchand now finds himself suited up in the fiery red of the Florida Panthers, a fierce rival in the NHL. Yet, despite this surprising team switch, one Bruins legend remains firmly in his corner.
Patrice Bergeron, the longtime Bruins center and Marchand’s closest teammate for well over a decade, has been openly rooting for Marchand throughout the playoffs. The two shared incredible moments on the ice, including lifting the Stanley Cup together back in 2011, and Bergeron is now eager to see his old friend chase a second championship with Florida.
“It’s definitely strange seeing him in Florida’s red instead of Bruins black and gold,” Bergeron admitted to NHL.com. “But he’s still the same relentless competitor I’ve always known. Watching him dominate out there is a real treat, and I’m thoroughly enjoying it.”
Bergeron expressed no surprise at Marchand’s impressive playoff contributions. In fact, he described Marchand as one of the hardest-working and most fiercely competitive players he’s ever played alongside. “He thrives when people doubt him. It’s that fire that pushes him to be better. That’s exactly what we’re seeing right now.”
Since joining the Panthers late in the season, Marchand has been a dominant force. In just 20 playoff games, the 37-year-old has racked up 18 points, including eight goals and ten assists, placing him among Florida’s top performers. His clutch play includes scoring in the first three games of the Stanley Cup Final, making him the oldest player to ever accomplish that feat.
With the Panthers on the brink of securing their second consecutive Stanley Cup title, Bergeron believes Marchand is in his element. “He’s a perfect fit for Florida’s style of play. And he’s never one to back down from a challenge. That determination is what makes him so special.”
Bergeron shared a humorous anecdote about fans asking which team he’s supporting in the finals. “People ask if I’m rooting for the Oilers or the Panthers. My answer is always the same: I’m cheering for Marshy. I’m his biggest fan right now, sending him all the positive energy I can.”
No matter the jersey, the bond between these former teammates remains strong. For Bergeron, it’s clear: Marchand’s success is something to celebrate, even from the other side of the rivalry.
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