Brad Marchand 's ex-Bruins HC playfully warns 37 y.o. forward for "bawling his eye out" to emotional video tribute, in return to Boston

It was an emotional game for Brad Marchand as he returned to TD Garden as a Florida Panthers player on Tuesday.

After 16 seasons with the Bruins, including one as captain, Marchand was traded to the Panthers at this year’s trade deadline. The heartfelt reception from the Bruins organization moved the 37-year-old forward to tears during a video tribute at TD Garden.

Meanwhile, his former coach, Bruce Cassidy, playfully teased Marchand for “bawling his eyes out” during the tribute. Sharing his thoughts on Marchand's Boston homecoming, Cassidy said:

“I saw him bawling his eyes out on TV. He’s such a smack-talker. He’s going to hear about that on Saturday.

Bruce Cassidy coached Marchand for six seasons while serving as the head coach of the Bruins from 2016 to 2022. Following that, Cassidy has been with the Vegas Golden Knights, winning the Stanley Cup in his first season with the club.

Brad Marchand shared his thoughts about getting emotional during the tribute video

Brad Marchand opened up about what was going through his mind during the tribute video. He expressed deep gratitude for the moment and appreciation for the Bruins' gesture, as well as the love and support from the fans.

He said (via NHL.com):

"I knew it was going to hit me the way it did. I’m so grateful for the moment and very appreciative for what the Bruins did, and the love and support the fans have shown me, not just tonight, but throughout my entire career here.

He added:

"I always loved playing here, loved putting the jersey on and wearing my heart on my sleeve. It’s a hard-working city and people appreciate that. I love the fans here. They’re special. They’re an incredible group.

Brad Marchand's pair of assists powered the Panthers to a 4-3 win over the Bruins in his Boston homecoming matchup. The 37-year-old leads the team with eight points through three goals and five assists. The Cats play the Penguins on Thursday.

About the author

Abhishek is an NHL writer at Sportskeeda with over 2 years of sports reporting experience and a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Delhi. He became a fan of ice hockey after watching NHL fight videos on YouTube, which led to him professionally writing about the sport and his continued interest in all things hockey.

A fan of the Boston Bruins, Abhishek considers their incredible comeback win against the Toronto Maple Leafs in the 2013 playoffs as the most iconic moment in the NHL. His admiration for the six-time Stanley Cup winners also comes from the team’s storied history, distinctive black and gold uniform and their success in the sport. His all-time favorite NHL players are Sidney Crosby and Connor McDavid, for their ability to perform at the highest level consistently.

Abhishek ensures his reporting is fair and balanced by being well-researched in his details, which he expects to be relevant, up-to-date and in line with ethical standards. His specialties are doing detailed match analysis and covering fan reactions.

Abhishek enjoys music, traveling and going on walks with his three German Shepherds in his free time, along with learning about horticulture.

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Edited by Abhishek Dilta