Chicago Blackhawks forward Pat Maroon will retire from professional hockey at the conclusion of this season.
In an emotional interview with Darren Pang on the Chicago Sports Network, Maroon shared his decision to retire before his 840th career game. This game was particularly significant as it was held in his hometown of St. Louis against the Blues on Saturday.
“Sometimes you have to let go of everything you are familiar with and everything you have dreamed of throughout your life,” Maroon stated. “I realize that now is the right time for my family and me to begin a new chapter in our lives.”
Across his 14 NHL seasons, Maroon has accumulated 320 points, comprising 125 goals and 195 assists, along with 1,071 penalty minutes. He has played for several teams, including the Anaheim Ducks, Edmonton Oilers, New Jersey Devils, Blues, Tampa Bay Lightning, Minnesota Wild, Boston Bruins, and finally, the Blackhawks.
A significant highlight of his career is winning the Stanley Cup in three successive years. He first won with the Blues in 2019 and then secured back-to-back championships with the Lightning in 2020 and 2021.
During the 2016-17 season with the Oilers, Maroon achieved his best offensive output, recording 27 goals and 42 total points.
This season, at 36 years old, he has played 59 games, contributing 16 points (four goals and 12 assists) and incurring 81 penalty minutes.
“It’s difficult,” Maroon admitted. “It’s challenging to experience moments like this. It`s hard to fully grasp it, but I believe it’s a special moment for my family and me as we embark on a new phase.”
The Blackhawks, with a record of 20-40-9, were recently removed from playoff contention on Thursday. Their last home game is scheduled for April 12 against Winnipeg, and they will conclude the regular season on April 15 in Ottawa.
Tristan Blackwood