Bruins’ Brad Marchand – Injuring opponents ‘in the playoffs’

Boston Bruins captain Brad Marchand believes Sam Bennett “got away with a hit” when he hit Marchand’s head in Game 3, but opponents looking for injury are just some playoff hockey.

“People don’t want to say it, but part of the playoffs is trying to hurt every player on the other team. The more guys you take out, the more advantage your team has,” Marchand said. speaking out for the first time after his departure. Game 3 against the Florida Panthers due to injury.

“Every time you step on the ice, someone is trying to hurt someone. That’s just how it goes in the playoffs. That’s part of the benefit of having a physical group. That’s why you rarely see small and competent teams go far because they are injured,” he said.

Marchand missed the final two games of the series, with the Bruins losing Game 4 but avoiding elimination with a Game 5 win at Sunrise. Game 6 is scheduled for Friday night in Boston, with Florida leading the series 3-2.

Coach Jim Montgomery hoped Marchand could return to the Bruins for Game 6, but stressed his captain had “some boxes to check” before being cleared to play. He is officially day to day with an upper body injury. An encouraging sign for Marchand and Boston: He made regular runs on the line and was on the first power play unit in practice Thursday.

The Bruins would welcome him back, as Marchand has 10 points and 10 games (3 goals, 7 assists), tied for first in team scoring with Jake DeBrusk.

Marchand’s injury could be the result of a controversial play involving Bennett. As Marchand went to punch Bennett near the benches, Bennett appeared to throw a gloved punch with his right hand as they made contact. Bennett denied throwing a punch.

“I’m trying to prepare. I never would have had time to think about hitting him in the face like everyone else,” he said after Game 4.

Marchand called Bennett “an extremely physical player” who does a great job for the Panthers. Bennett was not penalized on the play and did not receive any additional discipline from the NHL’s Department of Player Safety.

“I think he got away with a shot. But I’m not going to complain. It happens. It’s part of playoff hockey, I’ve been on the other side of a lot of plays,” said Marchand said.