Bruins’ Marchand named top rookie for January

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SPRINGFIELD, Mass. … The American Hockey League announced today that Providence Bruins right wing Brad Marchand has been named the Reebok Edge/AHL Rookie of the Month for January. Marchand recorded five goals, 11 assists and a plus-8 rating in 13 games for the Bruins last month.

Marchand kicked off the month with a six-game scoring streak, sparked by a three-point night (one goal, two assists) in a 7-2 win over Hershey on Jan. 2. He recorded two assists in a 3-1 decision over Houston on Jan. 4, and came back with a goal and an assist in a 3-2 overtime loss at Manchester on Jan. 7. Marchand finished the month strong as well with points in three straight games, including two assists vs. Portland on Jan. 30 and a goal at Lowell on Jan. 31.

In recognition of his achievement, Marchand will be presented with an etched crystal award prior to an upcoming Bruins home game.

Marchand, 20, was a third-round pick by Boston in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft. The native of Halifax, N.S., has totaled 10 goals and 22 assists for 32 points and is one of three Providence players to skate in all 49 of the team’s games this season. Marchand played junior hockey in the QMJHL and totaled 102 goals and 146 assists for 248 points in 245 games over four seasons.

Other nominees for Reebok Edge/AHL Rookie of the Month include Albany center Nick Dodge, Bridgeport left wing Jesse Joensuu, Chicago right wing Spencer Machacek, Grand Rapids center Francis Pare, Hartford goaltender Matt Zaba, Iowa left wing Matt Beleskey, Lake Erie center T.J. Galiardi, Manchester center Justin Azevedo, Quad City goaltender Leland Irving, Rochester right wing Michal Repik, Syracuse right wing Maksim Mayorov and Wilkes-Barre/Scranton left wing Luca Caputi.