Brad Marchand Proclaims “We’re Going To Compete”

Tuukka Rask’s comments on Thursday night shocked Bruins fans and media alike. The honesty from the Bruins goaltender was taken by some to mean that he, and by extension the team, weren’t treating these Stanley Cup Playoffs like a normal year. Brad Marchand gave his thoughts on how the tournament feels on Thursday night.

He too was quite honest with reporters. Marchand offered an explanation for his longtime teammate, friend and goaltender.

“No, I think maybe he was just talking about the round robin games,” Marchand offered. “I didn’t see his comments but the round robin games for us were exhibition games. They should not be labeled playoff games. And those were ones that we were trying to prepare for the game. Maybe he was talking about that.”

Rask proclaimed that “It doesn’t really feel like playoff hockey” on Thursday night. He pointed out that there were no fans, and that it felt more like an exhibition game than the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

In terms of these First Round games? Well, Brad Marchand and the rest of the Boston Bruins are treating them for what they are. Stanley Cup Playoff games.

“These are playoff games; playoff atmosphere and we’re going to compete. We’re going to compete,” Marchand continued. “It’s definitely different. There is no question. It doesn’t have the same atmosphere and there is no home ice advantage. It’s just straight up hockey at this point. Unfortunately, that is the playoffs this year and at least we’re playing.”

The Bruins and Hurricanes currently sit tied 1-1 in their First Round series. Game 3 of the series goes Saturday afternoon at 12:00 pm.