Brad Marchand thanks Don Sweeney, calls him the best GM in the NHL

A new week, a new beginning for Brad Marchand.

The former Boston Bruins captain was, of course, traded to the Florida Panthers on Friday at the NHL trade deadline on Friday and today he met with the media in Florida for the first time.

While it's clear that Marchand is happy for a new opportunity in Florida, he also spoke glowingly of the Bruins organization from top to bottom.

"I had an incredible run in that organization and I'm extremely proud," said Marchand pausing after being overwhelmed by his emotions.

Marchand would continue from there and it was at this moment that his displeasure with the Bruins front office became very apparent.

"It was very disappointing that things didn't get done," admitted Marchand his voice cracking with pain. "Obviously I love the organization and I wanted to stay there."

Marchand did however express his understanding of the situation.

"At the end of the day I know this is a business and every player has a shelf life and regardless if that's when we want it to be or not, sometimes there are things out of our control that dictate situations."

In a tremendous show of class, and yet another sign of the man Marchand has matured into, Marchand took the time to praise Bruins general manager Don Sweeney in spite of his obvious disappointment in the decisions he had made regarding the trade to Florida.

"The one thing I always respect is that they have a job to do and they have to make the best decisions for the team," admitted Marchand. "Sometimes they work against you but that's why I believe that Sweens is one of, if not, the best general manager in the league."

Marchand would once again pause at this point, once again overcome by the emotions running through his mind and his body. When he had gathered himself he stated that he was not holding any ill will towards either the Bruins or his former teammates.

"It's obviously not what you want to have happen but I don't hold that against him or the group," said Marchand his voice once again breaking with emotion.

It was an incredible scene in Florida and one that I highly recommend you witness yourself, and you can do so by watching Marchand's response in the short video below: