A huge development emerges regarding the Bruins and Brad Marchand's trade saga

The Boston Bruins are at a crossroads: Their season isn't going the way it was planned, and now a player like Brad Marchand may be the odd one out.

The Bruins have been in a funk since Jim Montgomery was relieved of his duties as head coach. Since then, Joe Sacco has taken over as interim coach, but the team has yet to settle.

At 11-10-3, uncertainty surrounds the Bruins, and major changes could be in store for GM Don Sweeney. According to NHL insider Chris Johnston, if the team can't reverse course, captain Brad Marchand could be on the trade block.

Marchand's future has been a hot topic since the summer, as questions arose about whether he'd sign another long-term deal. Now in the final year of his 8-year, $6.125 million AAV contract, he could become a valuable rental for a contending team.

But his current form may impact his trade value. Through 24 games this season, Marchand has 17 points, with eight goals, nine assists, and a -3 rating, good but not great numbers for a top player.

It adds to the tension that Marchand called out Elliotte Friedman earlier this season over contract negotiations.

For now, speculation about his future is ripe, with The Athletic's Chris Johnston ranking him the 10th most likely player to be traded this season.

As the Bruins lineup has shown its instability, and as Sweeney tries to put together the pieces, Marchand might be the first major piece to move out of the post-Montgomery era.

Will they take a gamble on a rebuild or find a way to keep the captain? Only time can tell.

MUST READ

32 minutes ago  |  By Daniel Lucente New York Rangers GM Chris Drury has just placed another important key player on trade block

1 hour ago  |  By Daniel Lucente 2021 first overall pick Owen Power may be available in a trade

5 hours ago  |  By Julien Trekker Controversial candidate emerges to become the next Detroit Red Wings head coach

17 hours ago  |  By Tyler Ball Mikko Rantanen's future with the Colorado Avalanche uncertain as his new contract demands are revealed

18 hours ago  |  By Tyler Ball Toronto Maple Leafs forward William Nylander learns his fate after facing potential punishment from the NHL

22 hours ago  |  By Tom Banks Vancouver Canucks suffer major blow as veteran blue liner ruled out long-term

Nov 28  |  By Tom Banks Canadian team places young forward on waivers to terminate his contract

Nov 28  |  By Daniel Lucente Washington Capitals players give something to Charlie Lindgren post-game for scoring in his own net

MORE STORIES