Florida Panthers head coach Paul Maurice with latest update on Brad Marchand

Tuesday's 4-1 loss in Toronto already stung, then Marchand never returned for the third period. The Maple Leafs controlled the early damage and Florida chased the game from behind.

After the game, coach Paul Maurice said Marchand was pulled as a precaution, calling it a coach's decision with lingering issues. Maurice framed it as protecting the player, not gambling with something that could get worse.

That explanation fits the bigger picture, because Florida has been living under an injury cloud for months. Maurice has leaned cautious all season, especially with key names already missing time.

As a fan, I hate the mystery most, because it makes every shift feel louder. Florida shortened the bench, and the forecheck lost some bite once the lines had to stretch.

Marchand has 23 goals and 46 points in 40 games, and he's still a play-driver even when the legs look tired. When he's not there, the Panthers lose a puck-hound and a matchup problem in one spot.

This is also why the Panthers protect him, Marchand is 37 and signed for six years at a $5.25 million cap hit. You don't risk a long-season asset for one messy road third period.

If Brad Marchand is good to go for the next game, and Matthew Tkachuk is also trending toward a return, the Panthers will be in a far better position to handle the Canadiens, who'll be waiting with real intent on Thursday night.

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