Brad Marchand, a name synonymous with both skill and controversy, has carved out a unique legacy in the NHL through his time with the Boston Bruins. Hailing from Halifax, Nova Scotia, Marchand’s journey from a scrappy junior player to a Stanley Cup champion and elite winger has been punctuated by his tenacious playing style and an undeniable knack for getting under his opponents’ skin.

Apr 19, 2023; Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Boston Bruins left wing Brad Marchand (63) celebrates his goal against the Florida Panthers during the second period of game two of the first round of the 2023 Stanley Cup Playoffs at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports

Brad Marchand’s tenure with the Boston Bruins has been defined by his on-ice prowess, marked by his remarkable ability to contribute offensively while also ruffling feathers with his edgy, agitating style of play. Drafted by the Bruins in the third round of the 2006 NHL Entry Draft, Marchand rapidly ascended through the ranks, cementing himself as an integral part of the Bruins’ core. His chemistry with (now former) linemates Patrice Bergeron and David Pastrnak has often been lauded as one of the league’s most dynamic trios, capable of shifting the tide of a game in an instant.

However, Marchand’s reputation extends beyond his impressive point totals and seamless chemistry on the ice. His antagonistic style and willingness to toe the line between clean and controversial play have made him a polarizing figure in the NHL. Known for his penchant for trash-talking, agitating, and occasionally engaging in questionable hits, Marchand’s antics have at times drawn both praise from Bruins faithful and ire from opposing players, fans, and even league officials.

The “Little Ball of Hate,” as he is affectionately known by Bruins fans, has often found himself in the center of controversies that have ranged from licking opponents to delivering hits that straddle the line between legality and infraction. Despite these incidents, Marchand’s undeniable skill and determination have made him a beloved figure in Boston and a player opponents love to hate.

Brad Marchand’s Most Memorable Moments

• Marchand baits Justin Williams:

   

   

  In the 2019 Eastern Conference finals, Marchand brought down Hurricanes captain Justin Williams by hooking his stick around his neck, surprisingly getting away with this brazen act. Williams reacted by tearing Marchand’s chinstrap off, resulting in a holding penalty being called against Williams. As they disengaged, Marchand gestured to Williams, letting him know where the penalty box was. He then made a “C” with his hands, mocking the captain for taking the bait.

• Marchand flips Mark Borowiecki:

   

   

  During a game in December 2015, Borowiecki made contact with Marchand to create an opportunity for his Ottawa Senators teammate to move the puck out of their defensive zone. In response, Marchand executed a move, flipping Borowiecki skates-over-head. The move went unpenalized, but the NHL would suspend Marchand for 3 games after the conclusion of the game.

• Marchand spears Jake Dotchin:

   

   

  In an April 2017 game, Marchand and Dotchin were positioned near the Tampa Bay goal when Marchand opted to spear Dotchin in the groin using the blade of his stick. This caused the Lightning defenseman to collapse on the ice in discomfort as Marchand was escorted from the penalty box to the locker room with a game misconduct.

• Marchand concusses Salo:

   

   

  In the first game between the Bruins and Canucks since the 2011 Stanley Cup finals, Marchand retaliated to a Sami Salo hit by flipping him along the boards, causing a concussion. Marchand received a game misconduct penalty for his actions and was promptly suspended for 5 games.

• Marchand elbows Johansson:

   

   

  Marchand landed a brutal elbow to the head of Devils forward Marcus Johansson in January of 2018, leading to a five-game suspension. The two would become teammates after Johansson was traded to the Bruins the next season, and they would make up over the phone as they teamed up to chase the Stanley Cup.

• Marchand trolls Tampa fans:

   

   

  Marchand attended the 2018 all-star game despite being suspended for the aforementioned hit on Johansson. The Tampa Bay crowd showered Marchand with boos (his spear on Jake Dotchin had taken place months earlier), and Marchand, ever the showman, responded by waving and blowing kisses to the crowd.

• Marchand mocks the Canucks:

   

   

  Marchand added insult to injury for the Canucks when he skated past their bench, raising an invisible Stanley Cup and pretending to kiss it during a December 2013 game. Marchand claimed that this was in reaction to Ryan Kesler eye-gouging him during the game, but maybe he just wanted to relive some good old memories.

• Marchand licks Leo Komarov:

   

   

  Marchand attempted to add some humor to the Bruins-Maple Leafs rivalry when he licked forward Leo Komarov during an April 2018 game. Needless to say, Komarov didn’t appreciate the gesture. When asked about his decision, Marchand had this to say: “I thought he wanted to cuddle. I just wanted to get close to him. He keeps trying to get close to me. I don’t know if he’s got a thing for me or what. He’s quite the character.”

• Marchand trolls the media:

   

   

  Following the Bruins’ 4-2 series win against the Columbus Blue Jackets, Marchand was interviewed by Sportsnet’s Kyle Bukauskas about the series. Marchand’s responses were simply succinct, ranging from “We did a good job” to “We’re good.”

• Marchand punches Daniel Sedin:

   

   

  In one of the most memorable moments of the ultra-physical 2011 Stanley Cup final, Marchand grabbed Daniel Sedin after the puck was stopped and proceeded to punch him, landing more than five punches before a referee stepped in to break up the “fight.” After the game, Marchand was asked why he punched Sedin. “Because I felt like it,” he responded. Oh, Brad.

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