BREAKING: Panthers Reveal Timeline Update for Brad Marchand

Brad Marchand has been with the Florida Panthers for nearly three weeks but has yet to make his debut due to an upper-body injury sustained on March 4. The former Boston Bruins captain and the team’s general manager couldn’t agree on a contract extension, leading to his trade to a division rival for a conditional 2027 second-round pick.

Panthers head coach Paul Maurice provided an update, stating that Marchand is aiming to return Friday against the Utah Hockey Club. “He has been on the ice for a bit now,” Maurice said. “Having four days off helps since we don’t miss another game. We’ll get him through a full practice on Thursday and assess from there, but Friday is the target.”

During Wednesday’s practice, Marchand skated on the Panthers’ second line alongside Tomas Nosek and Mackie Samoskevich. However, Maurice made it clear there is no urgency to rush him back into action. “We’re not forcing these guys to return as soon as they’re available,” he said. “If he needs a few more days, that’s fine with us.”

Florida is also without star forward Matthew Tkachuk as they remain tied with the Toronto Maple Leafs for first place in the Atlantic Division. Once Marchand is ready, Maurice expects him to fill Tkachuk’s role until both are available. “With Matthew out, there’s definitely a spot for Marchand,” Maurice said. “He’s most familiar with Sam Bennett from their time playing internationally for Canada, so that’s why we’re placing him there.”

In 61 games this season, Marchand has recorded 21 goals and 47 points.