Bruins May Be Shopping Star Forward
In a recent discussion on the Jones & Mego show, Adam Jones made a controversial suggestion for the Boston Bruins: «moving on from Patrice Bergeron even if he wants to return.» The idea was to shake up the team and kickstart the transition to the next core. However, the panel on The Skate Podcast strongly disagrees with this notion.
If Bergeron is willing to return at a reasonable price, you absolutely bring him back because finding another center of his caliber at such a bargain is a near-impossible feat.
Nevertheless, Jones & Mego raised an intriguing point that merits further discussion: «What do you do with Brad Marchand if Bergeron departs?»
On this matter, The Skate Pod crew was divided in their opinions. Brian expressed openness to the idea, believing that without Bergeron, the Bruins won't have a realistic chance at winning the Stanley Cup next year. As the team would lack a true number one center, Brian suggested selling high on Marchand to accumulate draft picks, prospects, and other assets for the team's future.
Given the financial constraints, he argued that it would be a pragmatic approach.
Bridgette, on the other hand, was more resistant to the notion. Bridgette emphasized the importance of leadership and pointed out that when Bergeron was absent during the playoffs, Marchand stepped up as a respected and influential figure in the locker room. She believed that maintaining the team's culture, which emphasizes hard work and accountability, is crucial, and Marchand has grown into a leadership role.
Adding that Marchand could serve as the next captain, bridging the team to the next era. While we acknowledged the trade value of his contract, which stands at $6.125 million, we advocated against trading him this offseason. Instead, we suggested considering other pieces to potentially move, such as Taylor Hall or Linus Ullmark. We believed there is significant value in keeping Marchand as the next captain and leader, especially considering the ongoing development of players like Charlie McAvoy and David Pastrnak, who may not be ready for captaincy just yet.
In conclusion, the question of what to do with Marchand in the absence of Bergeron sparked varying opinions among the panel, highlighting the importance of leadership and the team's culture.
| POLL | ||
Should the Bruins shop Marchand or keep him around? | ||
| Trade him | 56 | 12.7 % |
| Keep him around 100% | 385 | 87.3 % |
| List of polls | ||
