Bruins' forward Brad Marchand was surrounded by the media as a result of him being named the 2010-11 winner of the Seventh Player Award given to the Bruin whom fans believe have exceeded their expectations the most.
Marchand said he found out just before the game started that he was the recipient.
``It was a question mark if I was even going to be on the team this year,'' said the 22-year-old. ``It's an honor to win that award, it's special.''
Marchant said his role has evolved from one of more defensive responsibility to one that has allowed him to blend both defense and offense. He has been given plenty of chances playing on a line with Patrice Bergeron and Mark Recchi.
``I was expected to be defensively responsible and bring energy and now I think I still have to do the exact same thing but maybe bring a little more offense. They're very offensive players, they're both very smart and they make a lot of unbelieveable plays that you don't see coming a lot of times. Playing with guys like that, you're expected to produce.''
Despite the Bruins capturing the Northeast Division title with the 3-2 win over the Thrashers, Marchand said the team is just getting started.
``We didn't come into the season wanting to win the division,'' he said. ``We have a goal and that's to win the Stanley Cup. It's a stepping stone, it's a good accomplishment for our team but there's a long way to go before we have accomplished our goal. It's special but at the same time, it's a long ways away.''