Panthers Reveal Potential Brad Marchand Debut Date

The Florida Panthers shocked the NHL world at the trade deadline when they pulled off a blockbuster for Brad Marchand. While he’s yet to make his debut for the defending Stanley Cup champions, that could change this week.

Head coach Paul Maurice said Wednesday that Marchand is targeting Friday as his first game with the Cats as they face the Utah Hockey Club. It’s not a guarantee, but there’s optimism, per Jameson Olive.

Maurice says the Panthers are targeting Friday’s game vs. Utah as a potential debut for Marchand.

No guarantee, but that’s the hope.

— Jameson Olive (@JamesonCoop) March 26, 2025

Maurice said that Marchand will be a full participant in practice on Thursday before he decides what his status will be against Utah. The veteran hasn’t played since March 4 due to an upper body injury, but he’s having another productive campaign.

Before the trade, the Canadian had 21 goals and 26 helpers in 61 appearances for the Boston Bruins. Marchand played his entire career with the Bruins and will go down as one of the best players in franchise history. Absolutely nobody saw the trade coming, especially considering he went to a divisional rival.

But the Panthers are surely going to benefit. Marchand is experienced, tough, and a very talented player on both ends of the ice. Florida also swung a trade for Seth Jones at the deadline, strengthening their blue line in the process. That’s made a big difference considering Aaron Ekblad is currently suspended.

Maurice’s squad is tied for top spot in the heavily competitive Atlantic Division with 89 points. They have a 43-25-3 record and last played on Sunday, beating the Pittsburgh Penguins in a shootout.

The Panthers don’t play again until Friday and it will be very promising if Marchand does take the ice. If not, his next chance to suit up will be on Sunday against the Montreal Canadiens.