Boston Bruins fans are gradually warming to GM Don Sweeney's decision to trade Brad Marchand. Initially met with backlash, Sweeney's strategy of reloading the team with top draft picks, young prospects,

TAMPA, Fla. — Don Sweeney did what he had to do Friday, tearing the bandage off the festering 2024-25 season and bidding adieu to a collection of fan favorites, chief among them Bruins captain Brad Marchand.

But in his first presser as a Panther, he showed no bitterness to Sweeney or the Bruins. In fact, it was quite the opposite reaction in a moment that was equal parts emotion and pragmatism. He also lavished praise on Sweeney, who has been taking plenty of heat here for trading a player whose No. 63 will be raised to the Garden rafters some day.