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Boston Bruin Milan Lucic Taking ‘Indefinite Leave’ From Team After Domestic Incident

Milan Lucic left an indelible mark on the ice for the Boston Bruins, but he is now taking an ‘indefinite leave’ from the team after an arrest Saturday morning involving…

Milan Lucic, Boston Bruins, on the ice

Milan Lucic is taking an indefinite leave form the team after being arrested for an alleged domestic incident. The Bruins have released a statement.

(Photo by Jared Wickerham/Getty Images)

Milan Lucic left an indelible mark on the ice for the Boston Bruins, but he is now taking an 'indefinite leave' from the team after an arrest Saturday morning involving a domestic incident.

The alleged domestic incident took place on Friday night, November 17. Milan Lucic was arrested on Saturday, November 18. While the details of the incident are not immediately clear, according to a source, the domestic incident involved his wife, Brittany Carnegie.

On Saturday morning, the Boston Bruins released the following statement.

"The Boston Bruins are aware of an incident involving Milan Lucic Friday evening. Milan is taking an indefinite leave of absence from the team. The organization takes these matters very seriously and will work with the Lucic family to provide any support and assistance they may need. We will have no further comment at this time." 

In the 2023-2024 season, Lucic played only four games for the team before a lower-body injury. He has not played in a game since October 21st, and he was on the long-term injured reserve list. Prior to the start of the season he signed a $1.5mil contract to return to the Boston Bruins.

This is not the first time Milan Lucic has had a domestic altercation. In September of 2011, he was questioned by police after a public altercation with his girlfriend in the North End. At the time, no witnesses observed any physical assault and the girlfriend told police she “was not touched.” Therefore, Lucic was not charged.

On December 15, 2013 Lucic got in an verbal altercation with someone outside of a bar in Vancouver. He claims in the video (NSFW), that he was hit three times by this unidentified man. You can watch the interaction here.

The Good Memories With Milan Lucic

Milan Lucic joined the Boston Bruins in 2007, quickly establishing himself as a formidable power forward. Known for his physical play, scoring ability, and unwavering dedication, Lucic became a key player for the Bruins. His gritty style of play perfectly complemented the team's identity, earning him the admiration of fans and teammates alike.

One of the defining moments of Lucic's career with the Bruins came in the 2010-2011 season when the team secured the Stanley Cup. Lucic's contributions were pivotal during the playoff run, showcasing his scoring prowess and tenacity. His presence in the lineup brought an undeniable energy that fueled the team to its first championship in 39 years.

Boston Bruin, Milan Lucic, smiling into the camera on the ice

Milan Lucic played 8 seasons with the Boston Bruins. He made his debut in 2007, and came back to the team for the 2023-2024 season. He helped the Bruins win a Stanley Cup.

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This Is How Much Money The Top 6 Players On The Boston Bruins Are Making

This is how much money the top 6 players on the Boston Bruins are making.

As the Boston Bruins celebrate a century of historic ice hockey, it's only fitting to shine a light on six current players who not only command the highest salaries but have also solidified their places as franchise icons. From jaw-dropping saves to game-changing goals, these athletes exemplify why they are worth every penny to the city of Boston.

David Pastrnak #88 of the Boston Bruins takes a shot against the Chicago Blackhawks during the third period of the Bruins home opener at TD Garden on October 11, 2023.

David Pastrnak is one of the Bruins' top earners. How much does he make though?

How Hockey Salaries Differ From Other Pro Sports

NHL hockey salaries tend to be more conservative than other professional sports leagues. The reason is because the NHL restricts teams from spending above a specified threshold on player salaries. The salary cap for each NHL team is $83.5mil.

While the NFL also operates under a salary cap system, its cap is generally higher, allowing for bigger contracts. Secondly, MLB, with no salary cap, sees massive contracts for its marquee players. A lot of that is due to the lucrative TV contracts and endorsements. The NBA, meanwhile, has fewer players on each team roster compared to the NHL, which means more salary to go around for its stars.

Additionally, global endorsements and larger TV deals in the NBA and MLB contribute to higher player salaries relative to the NHL. Don't let that mislead you though. Hockey players are still making a LOT of money. It's just that they're not making as much as the other professional sports leagues.

Shohei Ohtani getting excited after throwing a nice pitch

It's projected that Shohei Ohtani, from Japan, will take home $70mil in earnings just this year! He is the highest paid player in the MLB.

Boston Clearly Invests In Their Bruins Team

As the Boston Bruins mark 100 years of excellence, the contributions of these six top earners are evident in every game, every play, and every moment on the ice. The city of Boston doesn't just pay these athletes; they invest in them. And it shows! The Bruins have won the Stanley Cup six times (1929, 1939, 1941, 1970, 1972, and 2011). Here's to another century of iconic players and unforgettable moments!

This Is How Much Money The Top 6 Players On The Boston Bruins Are Making:

6. Linus Ullmark

Goalies are often the unsung heroes, but Ullmark's contributions cannot be understated. His quick reflexes and calm demeanor under pressure have bailed the Bruins out on numerous occasions. In clutch situations, Boston can rest easy knowing Ullmark is guarding their net.

Contract: 4yrs at $20mil
Signing Bonus: $3mil
Average Salary: $5mil/year

Boston Bruins goalie Linus Ullmark in front of the goal.

Linus Ullmark is the 6th top paid player on the Boston Bruins. On 28 July 2021, Ullmark left the Sabres as a free agent and signed a four-year, $20 million contract to be the starting goaltender with the Boston Bruins.

5. Charlie Coyle

Versatility is Coyle's middle name. Able to excel in various roles and situations, his adaptability makes him a coach's dream. Whether it's anchoring a critical penalty kill or providing offensive sparks, Coyle has shown time and time again why he's an essential part of the Bruins' core.

Contract: 6yrs at $31.5mil
Signing Bonus: $1mil
Average Salary: $5.25mil/year

Boston Bruins player Charlie Coyle

Charlie Coyle joined the Bruins in 2019. It's a perfect team for him because he grew up on the south shore in Weymouth, MA!

4. Brad Marchand

The embodiment of passion and grit, Marchand has long been a fan favorite. His relentless drive, combined with his knack for producing at crucial moments, makes him an indispensable asset. While he's known for his fiery spirit, Marchand's consistent performance and leadership qualities underscore his worth to the franchise.

Contract: 8 yrs at $49mil
Signing Bonus: $24mil
Average Salary: $6.125mil/year

Boston bruins player Brad Marchand pointing at the crowd

Captain o captain! Brad Marchand was just named the new Bruins captain, and he's been a Bruin since 2009!

3. Hampus Lindholm

Another defense stalwart, Lindholm, brings a balanced mix of physicality and technical prowess. His timely interventions, coupled with a keen sense of positioning, make him invaluable to the Bruins. Lindholm's ability to contribute both offensively and defensively ensures that Boston's investment in him is money well spent.

Contract: 8 Yrs at $52mil
Signing Bonus: $10mil
Average Salary: $6.5mil/year

Boston bruins player Hampus Lindholm

Hampus Lindholm was gotten in a trade with the Anaheim Ducks. Cam Neely noted that they paid top dollar in the trade at the last minute to get him on the Bruins.

2. Charlie McAvoy

McAvoy is the epitome of defensive excellence. Combining strength with finesse, he's proven himself as a cornerstone for the Bruins' blue line. With McAvoy on the ice, opponents find it increasingly challenging to penetrate the Bruins' defensive zone, and his presence has been pivotal in the team's most significant victories.

Contract: 8 yrs at $76mil
Signing Bonus: $26.5mil
Average Salary: $9.5mil/year

Charlie McAvoy on the Boston bruins celebrating a win.

Charlie McAvoy joined the Boston Bruins in 2017. He's the 2nd highest player on the team.

1. David Pastrnak

Leading the pack is David Pastrnak, a dynamo on the ice. His unparalleled puck-handling skills, sharpshooter mentality, and uncanny ability to find the net make him a defensive nightmare for opponents. Pastrnak's impact on the Bruins' offense is palpable, often serving as the driving force behind crucial goals and game-winning plays. It's no wonder he tops the earnings list; his value to the Bruins is undeniable.

Contract: 8yrs at $90mil
Signing Bonus: $26.5mil
Average Salary: $11.25mil/year

David Pastrnak celebrating a goal with fans at the glass

David Pastrnak joined the Bruins in 2014. He's their highest paid player!

Ayla Brown has been an on-air morning show host with Country 102.5 since 2018. Before taking this once-in-a-lifetime job, Ayla was (and still is) a country music singer. In 2006, she placed 13th on American Idol. In 2012 and 2013 she celebrated her Grand Ole Opry and Ryman Auditorium debut, and over the years she has visited 13 countries overseas to sing for the American Troops. Country music is in Ayla Brown’s soul. Not only does she sing it, but she gets to talk about it every day on “Country Mornings with Jonathan and Ayla.” Ayla is happily married to singer-songwriter, Rob Bellamy, and they welcomed a son named Barrett in August of 2022. In her free time, she loves to sew baby bibs and experiment with new recipes in the kitchen. She also loves to travel and try new foods. Ayla writes about Boston area happenings, parenting, holistic lifestyle and living, and travel.