Unexpectedly, Boston Bruins captain Brad Marchand and NHL insider Elliotte Friedman have become the primary characters in the best soap opera of the early season. To put things in perspective, Marchand, 36, is in the last season of an eight-year, $49 million contract. In July, he will be free to sign with any team he wants.
The veteran forward criticized Friedman for his report, calling it “false,” after the Sportsnet pundit initially revealed a close deal between Marchand and the Bruins. This led to the insider responding in the third segment of this story.
Friedman hinted to the truthfulness of his report on X on Saturday, but on Monday’s episode of the “32 Thoughts” podcast, he addressed Marchand’s recent public denial of his report on contract negotiations with the Bruins. Friedman admitted on Monday that the most trustworthy source on the subject is Marchand himself.
32 Thoughts Monday news, information and analysis podcast.
Links to your preferred platform, with B & E injury attorneys, here: https://t.co/io7Mr1QEpm
Enjoy!
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) October 28, 2024
“If he says I’m wrong or the story is inaccurate at this point, I’ll have to accept it because he knows the situation,” Friedman said. He admitted he may have misunderstood some details but hinted that a deal could still be possible due to ongoing discussions between the Bruins and Marchand.
“I don’t think the talks between the Bruins and Marchand have ended,” Friedman said. “Someone told me on Sunday morning, ‘If you end up being wrong on this,’ they think it’ll be about the contract length.” He believes the Bruins prefer a two-year deal over three.
“If he says I’m wrong or the report is inaccurate right now, I have to accept it because he’s aware of the situation,” Friedman said. He admitted he may have misunderstood certain details but hinted that an agreement could still be possible due to continued talks between the Bruins and Marchand.
“I don’t think the discussions between the Bruins and Marchand have ended,” Friedman added. “Someone told me Sunday morning, ‘If you’re wrong about this,’ they believe it will be about the contract length.” He thinks the Bruins prefer a two-year deal instead of three.
