“Please, just…”: Brad Marchand’s wife Katrina urges Bruins fans to show love during his emotional return to Boston

Brad Marchand’s return to Boston is shaping up to be one of the most emotional moments of the NHL season, not just for him, but for his family too. After spending 16 unforgettable seasons with the Boston Bruins, the veteran winger is preparing to skate at TD Garden for the first time since being traded to the Florida Panthers at last year’s deadline.

And while he’s bracing for a mixed reception, his wife Katrina is hoping for something sweeter from the fans.

Katrina Marchand asks Bruins fans for ‘just a couple of yays’

Ahead of Tuesday night’s highly anticipated matchup, Brad Marchand's wife Katrina took to Instagram to share her hopes for the crowd’s reaction. Reposting her husband’s lighthearted quote from a Monday interview, “(The fans) won’t be able to cheer because I know they don’t like the Panthers very much, but maybe they’ll like me enough to give a little ‘Yay’”, Katrina added her own message: “Please, just a couple of yays.

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The post quickly made the rounds among Bruins and Panthers fans alike, sparking an outpouring of nostalgia and affection for the longtime Boston star. Marchand, who helped Florida capture its second consecutive Stanley Cup last season with 10 goals and 20 playoff points, remains a beloved figure in Boston for his grit, leadership, and fiery passion.

Brad Marchand reflects on his Boston memories and loyal fanbase

Speaking to NHL.com after Monday’s practice at TD Garden, Marchand admitted the homecoming has stirred unexpected emotions.

“It kind of hits you when you’re here a little bit more,” he said. “I haven’t thought about it a ton up until this point... But it’ll be hard not to. There are too many memories and I was here too long for it not to.”When asked what he misses most, his answer came easily: “The fans, for sure. The city’s incredible... But the fans make it awesome.”As he takes the ice in front of familiar faces, including his family and longtime supporters, Marchand knows the cheers and boos will blend into one thing: a reminder of the city that shaped his legacy.Also Read: Brad Marchand doesn’t hesitate, reveals the best thing about Boston ahead of Panthers’ big visit