Florida Panthers Extend Contract for Brad Marchand
In a significant move, Bill Zito, the President of Hockey Operations and General Manager of the Florida Panthers, announced a six-year contract extension for forward Brad Marchand. Zito praised Marchand, stating, “He instantly elevated our lineup. He embodies the spirit of a warrior on the ice and is a vital leader for our team.”
At 37, Marchand has already made an impact since joining the Panthers. In the regular season, he racked up four points (2 goals, 2 assists) in just 10 games after returning from injury. His postseason performance was even more impressive, contributing to 20 points (10 goals, 10 assists) in 23 playoff games. This helped him secure his second Stanley Cup and mark one of his most successful playoff runs. Notably, his 20 playoff points tie him with NHL legend Phil Esposito for the third-most points recorded by a player aged 37 or older.
Marchand showcased his clutch ability by scoring two crucial overtime goals during the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs. His two-goal performances in pivotal games demonstrate his knack for delivering in the biggest moments, making him a standout player during the playoffs. He also became the first player in NHL history to score five or more goals in multiple Final series with different teams.
Weighing in on Marchand’s performance, hockey analyst Emily Kaplan noted, “He’s not just a scorer; he has an incredible work ethic. His leadership can’t be overstated, especially in high-pressure situations.”
Throughout his career, which spans over 1,100 NHL games primarily with the Panthers and the Boston Bruins, Marchand has accumulated 980 points (424 goals, 556 assists). He has consistently been a top performer, scoring at least 20 goals in each of his 14 full NHL seasons.
His postseason experience is extensive, with 180 playoff games under his belt, yielding 158 points (66 goals, 92 assists). Remarkably, Marchand holds the record for the most game-winning goals among active players, emphasizing his significance in critical matchups.
Marchand’s success extends beyond the NHL, as he has represented Canada internationally, contributing to numerous gold medal victories, including the 2025 NHL 4 Nations Face-Off and the 2016 World Cup of Hockey.
Selected in the third round of the 2006 NHL Draft, Marchand’s journey from rookie to seasoned veteran reflects his dedication and talent. As the Florida Panthers continue to build on their recent back-to-back championships, Marchand stands as a cornerstone of their team for years to come.
For more insights into Marchand’s career and contributions, check out the NHL’s official statistics page here.