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.

Don Sweeney explained the decision that went into the team trading captain Brad Marchand to the Florida Panthers for a conditional pick.

Brad Marchand's trade from the Boston Bruins to the Florida Panthers has shocked fans. Despite former NHL players criticizing the Bruins for not meeting Marchand's salary demands, many fans believe his age and injuries justified the trade.