NHL Free Agents: Boston Bruins and Brad Marchand Close to a Deal?

Boston Bruins forward Brad Marchand is still celebrating the team's first Stanley Cup championship in 39 years, but as training camp approaches, the young winger knows it's time to get a new contract.

Marchand, 23, is a restricted free agent, and is due for a nice raise.

He said the following in an August 4 Sporting News article:

"

“Right now, we’re just kind of getting into things,” he said. “It’s been a long summer and people have been on vacation and enjoying the Cup so we’re going to start getting into it pretty heavily here.”

"

Marchand's agent, Wade Arnott, said talks are ongoing with the Bruins regarding Marchand's new contract, but that nothing is close yet.

"

“Discussions with the Bruins are ongoing but nothing is imminent,” wrote Arnott, of Newport Sports Management. “We continue to work towards a resolution.”

"

The Bruins have plenty of salary cap space to sign last season's breakout star.

Boston has over $7 million in cap space, according to Capgeek.com, but also must think about future players that must be re-signed.

Forward David Krejci, defenseman Johnny Boychuk, and goaltender Tuukka Rask will all need new contracts next summer or the one after that, so the Bruins must not overpay for Marchand.

Marchand will likely receive a two year contract, worth about $2.5-3.5 million per season.

He scored 21 goals with 20 assists last season, and his 11 postseason goals were the most by a Bruins rookie in team history.

Boston's new fan favorite, Marchand enjoys playing in Boston, and will likely be a key part of the Bruins offense for many years to come.

Nicholas Goss is a Boston Bruins featured columnist for Bleacher Report, and was the organization's on-site reporter for the 2011 Stanley Cup Finals in Boston. Follow him on Twitter for Bruins & NHL news and analysis. Follow @NicholasGoss35