. >> reporter: brad marchant not being able for the game. a huge storyline heading into this. tomorrow is the greatest spectacle in hockey and gives the nhl to chance show sporting world. >> it's a special moment. i mean, especially here at gillette stadium with 60,000 plus fans. it's something we don't get to experience at all. >> reporter: patrice bergeron and the bruins savoring every moment of their winter classic but brad marchand -- [inaudible] the forward out for the n.h.l.signature event saying sorry this morning. >> i want to apologize the and i truly am sorry to everyone about again the situation. it's very disappointing. it's something we're all looking forward to and but i respected decision that the league has made and i'm going to live with it. >> reporter: so do his team mates who have to carry on without their leading goal scorer. >> tea tough losing him. we're not making excuses. everyone is, there is a couple of opportunities for other guys to step up and they got to take advantage of that. >> reporter: do it with the entire hockey world watching. >> obviousl