Brad Marchand struggles in return to practice after undergoing three offseason surgeries
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Samer Dagher
Sep 8, 2024 (3:36 PM)
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Photo credit: The Hockey News
Brad Marchand had a tough off-season, undergoing three surgeries to address injuries he suffered during the 2023-24 season. Despite the surgeries, the Boston Bruins captain is back on the ice, participating in the team's annual captain's practice.
However, NHL Network's Mike Johnson noted that Marchand appeared sluggish in his return.
"I don't want to read too much into the captain's practice footage, but he wasn't moving completely free out there just yet," observed Johnson.
"The further you get into your career, whether you're 29 or 36 or whatever it might be, it takes a little longer to heal, to recover, to get in shape and to find your best game," said Johnson. "That's just the reality of sports and the age curve that we all deal with."
"The further you get into your career, whether you're 29 or 36 or whatever it might be, it takes a little longer to heal, to recover, to get in shape and to find your best game," said Johnson. "That's just the reality of sports and the age curve that we all deal with."
At 36 years old, it's no surprise that recovery is slower compared to earlier in his career. Still, with a month to go until the NHL season starts, Marchand is expected to be ready for the Bruins' season opener.
Last season, even while dealing with injuries, Marchand scored 29 goals and racked up 67 points. If he's able to return to full strength, and with the addition of players like Nikita Zadorov and Elias Lindholm, the Bruins could once again be serious contenders for the Stanley Cup.
Source: Hockey Feed
Brad Marchand looks less than 100% in return to the ice.
Brad Marchand looks less than 100% in return to the ice.
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