Speaking to reporters days after capturing a Stanley Cup with the Panthers, Marchand had a simple request for general manager Bill Zito on Friday.
The 37-year-old veteran joined the Panthers at the NHL trade deadline and ended up being a crucial addition, scoring 10 goals and 20 points in 23 playoff games.
He was serving Blizzards at a local Dairy Queen and said that it “feels like I’m home.”
Marchand isn’t the only Panthers player to declare his desire to return as teammate Sam Bennett hinted at the possibility of a contract extension being in the works.
Fresh after winning a second consecutive Stanley Cup and earning the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP, Bennett addressed a Florida nightclub on Thursday night. Bennett told the crowd in his best impression of Leonardo DiCaprio as Jordan Belfort, “I ain’t (expletive) leaving,” as a graphic that read “8 more years” appeared on the screen behind him.
Although Bennett’s announcement led to an eruption of cheers, Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman reported Friday that no extension has been signed, but talks continue.
The Panthers head into the off-season with $19 million in cap space with Bennett, Marchand, and defenceman Aaron Ekblad headlining the list of pending free agents
Marchand’s last deal came with a $6.13-million cap hit per season. The former Boston Bruins winger is expected to get a pay raise on his next contract.
