Brad Marchand, sporting Florida Panthers gear, discussed his failed contract talks with the Bruins while also defending Don Sweeney Monday.

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.

Boston Bruins general manager Don Sweeney has broken his silence on the trade that sent longtime captain Brad Marchand to the Florida Panthers. Sweeney, speaking about the moves completed by the Bruins ahead of Friday's deadline,