Bruins Captain Brad Marchand Shuts Down Contract Rumours Reported by Elliotte Friedman

On Saturday night, Sportsnet insider Elliotte Friedman said during Hockey Night in Canada, that the Boston Bruins and pending UFA Brad Marchand were close to signing a contract extension. However, the captain of the Bruins has publicly refuted the report, claiming it is untrue.

Marchand had arguably his best game of the season, recording an assist and his first goal of the year, which came in overtime, when Leaf's Auston Matthews gave up sloppy giveaway.

But Marchand was directly questioned about the report following the game. He categorically denied the allegation, but he has a history of playing tricks on reporters, so maybe he's just having a little fun.

However, Friedman acknowledged that Marchand refuted the assertion, which would seem to suggest that there isn't anything here at all. In light of this, it wouldn't be shocking if the Bruins announced a deal for Marchand later today because stranger things have happened in the NHL.

With six points in nine games this season, including the game-winning goal in overtime on Saturday night, the 36-year-old, who is playing his 16th NHL season with the Bruins, is demonstrating that he hasn't slowed down all that much.

Marchand, who is completing an eight-year contract with a $6.125 AAV, has undergone no fewer than three offseason surgeries. If a deal cannot be reached by July 1st, he will become an unrestricted free agent.