Brad Marchand to Miss at Least First 14 Games as Panthers Forward Continues Rehab

Brad Marchand Expected to Spend October Rehabbing

Florida Panthers forward Brad Marchand is expected to miss at least the first month of the 2026-27 NHL season as he continues to recover from offseason surgery.

Panthers coach Paul Maurice said Thursday, following the team’s first day of training camp, that Marchand will spend the month of October focused on rehabilitation. That would keep the 38-year-old veteran out for at least Florida’s first 14 games of the regular season, although his return could come sooner if his recovery progresses without setbacks.

“He’s going to take the month of October for rehab,” Maurice said Thursday. “That may mean he’s ready to play right at the end of it. That may mean he needs a short period of time, assuming no setbacks. But we’re planning on rehabbing for October.”

Marchand revealed in mid-August that he underwent surgery, although the Panthers have not disclosed details of the procedure. He dealt with a lower-body issue for much of last season, ultimately missing a career-high 30 games.

Marchand Remains Productive Despite Injury

Despite his injury problems, Marchand remained an important offensive contributor for Florida last season. He recorded 27 goals and 27 assists for 54 points in 52 games before being shut down in early March.

Marchand’s season ended around the time it became increasingly clear that the Panthers would not qualify for the playoffs. Florida’s attempt to contend for a third consecutive Stanley Cup was also significantly affected by injuries throughout the lineup.

His continued rehabilitation gives the Panthers additional time to get their veteran forward healthy before he returns to game action.

Marchand Works Separately at Training Camp

Marchand was on the ice Thursday but did not participate in either of the two sessions Florida used for its opening day of training camp. Instead, he went through a separate workout with forward Jonah Gadjovich.

Gadjovich is also recovering from offseason surgery after playing in only 10 games last season before undergoing neck surgery. Maurice said Gadjovich remains out indefinitely. For the Panthers, the priority with Marchand is clear: allow the veteran forward to complete his rehabilitation rather than rush him back at the beginning of the season.

If his recovery continues as expected, Marchand could potentially return toward the end of October or require a short additional period before making his season debut. For now, Florida is preparing to begin the season without one of its most experienced forwards while Marchand focuses on getting fully healthy.