Bruins Star Brad Marchand Provides Details Of Offseason Surgeries

BOSTON -- Brad Marchand has a deserved reputation as one of the toughest players in the NHL, and the Boston Bruins captain detailed the preparation it takes to achieve that status.

Marchand was the first to hit the ice for the initial captains' practice at Warrior Ice Arena. The 36-year-old did some light skating, and he explained why that likely was the case.

"I had three surgeries this summer, so I didn't do a whole lot of training until about two weeks ago," Marchand said. "So I'm just kind of getting back into it. I don't know if you guys heard, but I was skating by myself. The goal is to be ready for camp and if not, very shortly after. I'm just kind of getting back into the swing of things now. I'm gonna hit it all head-on."

When asked what he got worked on, Marchand added: "I did my elbow. I tore a tendon and then my groin -- well, sports hernia and my groin."

Marchand played 82 games in the regular season but missed two games in the Stanley Cup playoffs after he took a hit from Florida Panthers star Sam Bennett. The Bruins captain also underwent two hip surgeries before the 2022-23 season, but his commitment remains unquestioned.

The 16th-year forward sounded optimistic that he'll return to form on time, but it could be something for head coach Jim Montgomery to monitor as he prepares for the season.