For better or worse, Boston agitator Brad Marchand has developed a reputation in this league.
A scrappy, strong two-way forward, the 5-foot-9 winger has always become synonymous with plays that either walk, or cross an extraordinarily thin line between clean or dirty. And in Thursday night’s 3-0 win over the New York Rangers, the 26-year-old crossed that line, slew-footing New York center Derick Brassard, and earning a two-game suspension from the NHL Department of Player Safety.
With the suspension, Marchand will forfeit over $48,000 in pay.
“I do have a past,… Marchand noted earlier this morning. “But I have been trying to play within the rules and change my game, I think that’s pretty clear. I play a hard game and I’m going to do things that are questionable at times, so I’ve got to live with it. The way that they discipline me, I’ve got to live with that.…
Marchand also noted that the play wasn’t ‘intentional’, but added that it was a ‘selfish act’ on his behalf.
Two games without their leading goal-scorer is rough, but the Black and Gold aren’t exactly putting their hands in concrete barrels and protesting the suspension on Boston highways.
“I think the league made its decision and I know they’re certainly trying to cut down on slew-footing so we have to respect it and move on,… B’s coach Claude Julien said of the suspension. “We’ve had some players that have stepped up and done a good job so we’re gonna go about our business as usual.…
The Bruins skated through their Friday practice with Danny Paille taking turns in Marchand’s spot on the second line with Patrice Bergeron and Reilly Smith, and will likely begin tonight’s tilt against the Columbus Blue Jackets with that trio up front.