The Boston Bruins’ recent trade of their captain, Brad Marchand, has indeed sparked significant outrage among fans. Many expressed disbelief over trading a Hall of Famer still capable of scoring 30+ goals for a conditional second-round pick, with some accusing General Manager Don Sweeney of sabotage.
Marchand’s contract, signed in 2016, was an eight-year extension worth $49 million, averaging $6.125 million per season. The contract was front-loaded, meaning Marchand received a substantial portion of the money in the earlier years. In the final year of his contract, his actual cash earnings were $4 million, with $3 million already paid as a signing bonus, leaving a $1 million salary for the remainder of the season. With the Bruins retaining 50% of his salary post-trade, the acquiring team, the Florida Panthers, is responsible for approximately $125,000 for the rest of the season.
Little tid bit on Brad Marchand’s contract, which was front-loaded when signed back in 2016: while the AAV is $6.125M, his actual cash this season was $4M, and $3M of that was paid already in a signing bonus. Which left $1M in salary this year. With 50% retention by Bruins, my…
— Pierre LeBrun (@PierreVLeBrun) March 10, 2025
This financial structure, while beneficial for the acquiring team, has added to fans’ frustration, as they feel the trade undervalues Marchand’s contributions and legacy with the Bruins.