Brad Marchand Explains Why Playing in Florida Was More Appealing Than in Toronto
Photo credit: Walter Tychnowicz-Imagn Images
Florida Panthers forward Brad Marchand confessed that playing in Florida had much more appeal than Toronto and that if they weren't so lucky; they'd be out a lot.
When Florida added Brad Marchand at the trade deadline last year it was a savvy move that saw the Panthers bring in one of the most clutch and reliable playoff performers over the last decade and a half.
Vital in making sure the team skated away with the second straight Stanley Cup, he was a free agent at season's end and there were rumors that he may head to Toronto after some very interesting comments.
However it was not meant to be, as Marchand re-upped on a lucrative six-year, $31.8-million extension that will see him end his career in Florida.
Brad Marchand Opens Up on Why Florida Was the Better Fit
It was a trio of moves that included bringing back Sam Bennett and Aaron Ekblad which ensured that Florida is well stocked for a three-peat.
But when asked ahead of training camp why he decided to stay in Florida, Marchand was genuinely honest about Florida's cap situation and why being in a no-tax state was a huge advantage:
Call it a spade of spade, if we were not in a non-tax state, it wouldn't have worked out probably for two guys (him, Sam Bennett and Aaron Ekblad). Two guys probably would have been leaving in that situation. So it's a benefit that this team has, we were able to utilize and make work.
Leave it to the veteran to never mince words regardless if they might put his team in a bit of a negative shine considering how much resentment there is for Florida, Vegas and Dallas among others to have tax-free capabilities.
Why It Matters: Leafs Face a Built-In Disadvantage
Look, let's do what Marchand did and call a spade a spade; Toronto is extremely unlucky to be where they are.
The fact that the NHL tends to favor those teams who have a tax-free advantage, at least from an outsider's perspective, how can you expect the Maple Leafs to be able to sign any premium players?
The spotlight is absurdly bright here, the pressure is immense and then on top of that you need to give away a larger portion of your salary to taxes. It's a trio that makes for some real misery at times, and unless you're someone like John Tavares; it's hard to commit long-term without taking precautions.
With a legendary class of free agents expected in 2026, Toronto is either going to have to overpay players to compensate for the higher taxes, or watch as they lose out on some of the best names in the sport.
For Marchand, he's not too concerned given his new deal and being part of a dynasty.
But for the Maple Leafs? It's a horrible bit of bad luck.
| POLL | ||
SEPTEMBRE 17 | 1174 ANSWERS Brad Marchand Explains Why Playing in Florida Was More Appealing Than in Toronto Do you think Toronto is at a severe disadvantage because of higher taxes? | ||
| Yes | 968 | 82.5 % |
| No | 206 | 17.5 % |
| List of polls | ||
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