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

After some initial smoke and confusion, we’re starting to a clearer idea of how and why contract negotiations between Brad Marchand and the Boston Bruins broke down, ultimately culminating in a trade to the Florida Panthers.

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.