Marchand (lower body) will return "early in the season," general manager Bill Zito said, while confirming the veteran forward won't be ready for Opening Night, per, Jordan McPherson of the Miami Herald on Wednesday.
Marchand's availability for the start of the season has been in doubt for a while, and the team continues to play it coy regarding a definite timeline. However, this update suggests Marchand could return earlier than initially expected. The Nova Scotia native still generated over a point per game last year, earning 54 points in 52 regular-season tilts. He should have plenty of value in fantasy formats if managers factor his health concerns into their roster plans.