Brad Marchand is getting closer to playing his first game for the Florida Panthers.
Coach Paul Maurice indicated on Wednesday that the team is aiming for Friday`s game against Utah as the debut for the 36-year-old Marchand. This information was reported by Jameson Olive, the team`s senior digital content manager.
Maurice mentioned that Marchand will participate fully in Thursday`s practice, after which a final decision will be made about his game availability.
Marchand, who has been recovering from an upper-body injury since March 4, was acquired by Florida just before the NHL trade deadline. The Panthers traded a conditional 2027 second-round pick to get him. This season, he has scored 21 goals and accumulated 47 points in 61 games.
On Wednesday, the four-time all-star and Stanley Cup winner practiced on the Panthers` second line with Tomas Nosek and Mackie Samoskevich.
The Florida Panthers are currently tied for the top spot in the Atlantic Division with the Toronto Maple Leafs, both teams having 89 points.
