ST. LOUIS – Veteran right-winger and three-time Stanley Cup winner Patrick Maroon has announced he will retire after the conclusion of this NHL season. At nearly 37 years old, Maroon shared his plan in a television interview prior to facing the St. Louis Blues with the Chicago Blackhawks, back in his hometown.
Reflecting on his decision, Maroon expressed no regrets, stating, “I’ve done everything I could in this league.” The announcement came after St. Louis defeated Chicago 4-1 on Saturday evening. Acknowledging his contributions, the St. Louis Blues honored Maroon during a second-period break with a video montage celebrating his career highlights, which prompted a resounding ovation from fans.
“The tribute was unexpected,” Maroon commented. “The Blues didn’t have to do that; it was just another game for me. The way everything played out today felt almost scripted.” During the match, Maroon engaged in a fight with Tyler Tucker in the third period, earning him the title of the game’s first star. His family, including his parents, brothers, and wife, was present to share in the moment.
Blues coach Jim Montgomery praised Maroon as both an intelligent player and an exemplary teammate. Speaking about coaching Maroon previously, Montgomery noted, “He understands the game at a level that’s quite underrated.” Maroon reminisced that his retirement decision had lingered in his thoughts throughout the year, feeling that St. Louis was the appropriate place to announce it.
“I’ve given the sport everything I’ve got and wanted to finish on my terms,” Maroon explained. “I didn’t want to end up desperately seeking contracts.” Brayden Schenn, a former Blues teammate, emphasized Maroon’s fitting sendoff, expressing his mixed feelings about seeing Maroon in a different jersey but appreciating the tribute he received.
In a pregame discussion, Maroon explained his choice to retire, citing a desire to begin a new chapter with his family. He stressed the importance of understanding when to move on. Maroon’s career includes significant achievements, such as helping the Blues clinch their first-ever championship in 2019 and contributing to the Tampa Bay Lightning’s consecutive wins in 2020 and 2021.
Maroon remarked, “Playing 352 minor and 840 NHL games, it’s incredible what I’ve accomplished. Winning in my hometown and then again was beyond my dreams.” Notably, Maroon is one of only four players in NHL history to win the Stanley Cup three consecutive times with two different teams. His decision to announce his retirement in St. Louis, surrounded by family, was significant.
“It’s challenging to process such a decision, but it’s special for me and my family to look toward a new phase in life,” Maroon reflected. His career encompasses over 1,000 games across teams such as Anaheim, Edmonton, New Jersey, St. Louis, Minnesota, Boston, and Chicago, all after being selected in the 2007 draft’s sixth round by Philadelphia.
Blackhawks interim head coach Anders Sorensen acknowledged the respect Maroon earned, describing his career as remarkable. Sorensen highlighted Maroon’s varied contributions on the ice and his positive influence on younger players. Although Maroon plans to retire, he committed to playing passionately for the remainder of the season, emphasizing, “Each shift feels like my last, and I intend to keep giving it my all.”
