Boston Bruins captain Brad Marchand dismissed trade speculation surrounding his future with the franchise, although he acknowledged he has “no control” over the situation.
Marchand was asked about the rumors involving him in a potential mid-season trade ahead of the March deadline, which could make sense considering the Bruins’ current placement in the standings.
The Bruins’ captain addressed the rumors following the team’s 6–2 loss to the Winnipeg Jets on Thursday night, their second consecutive defeat and one that dropped them outside the postseason picture.
“I’m not really worried about what’s being said in the media,” Marchand said postgame, per Scott McLaughlin. “At the end of the day, they’re going to make the decisions for the group they feel are necessary.
“I have no control over that, so I’m going to worry about what’s going on here and plan for this group. And, you know, as long as we’re in Boston ground, that’s what I’m worried about.”
Speculation around Marchand’s future has intensified amid the Bruins’ struggles, with a six-game losing streak at the start of the year leading to a heated exchange between the captain and the host of the “Jones & Keefe” show on Jan. 10.
The team, now fifth in the Atlantic Division with a 25-22-6 record, is now one point outside of the second wild-card spot, currently in possession of the Columbus Blue Jackets.
Bob DeChiara-Imagn Images
Before Thursday’s defeat to Winnipeg, the Bruins were routed 7–2 by the Buffalo Sabres last Tuesday, making it back-to-back losses.
“It’s been a different year,” Marchand said after Thursday’s loss. “We’re facing a lot of adversity this year, and we don’t have a choice but to work through it.
“Obviously, none of us are happy where we’re at and the position we’re in, especially considering where we expected to be to start the year, but you can’t focus on that.”
The 36-year-old has been one of Boston’s most productive players this season, recording 40 points through 53 games including 19 goals and 21 assists.
Boston will look to snap its losing streak on Saturday when it hosts the New York Rangers at TD Garden.