Pat Maroon donates to mental health charity after broadcaster's comments
Tampa Bay Lightning forward Pat Maroon turned Boston Bruins play-by-play announcer Jack Edwards' on-air comments about his weight into a positive Wednesday by making a $2,000 donation to a nonprofit that assists those dealing with mental health and substance abuse issues.
Maroon made the donation to Tampa Bay Thrives in Edwards' name and dedicated his act of goodwill to people struggling with "mental health, bullying, and body image."
In support of those struggling with mental health, bullying and body image I am making a 2,000 donation in the name of @realjackedwards to @TampaBayThrives and I encourage @TBLightning and @NHL fans to join me. Donate here: https://t.co/ZEbWHw6Cqv
— Pat Maroon (@patmaroon) November 30, 2022
Edwards raised some eyebrows midway through the first period of Tuesday's clash between the Lightning and Bruins when he brought up Maroon's listed weight of 238 pounds.
"That was Day 1 of training camp," Edwards said while laughing with color commentator Andy Brickley. "I've got a feeling he's had a few more pizzas between then and now."
Pat Maroon, fully minding his own business
— Pete Blackburn (@PeteBlackburn) November 30, 2022
Jack Edwards: pic.twitter.com/TE27x02Xi2
Edwards added, "Inadvertent fasting for Pat Maroon is like four hours without a meal. Hey, three Cups in a row, who can argue with his formula?"
Lightning teammate and captain Steven Stamkos also joined in on Maroon's cause.
Well done Patty…. Donating now! https://t.co/4dNTFSbJwA
— Steven Stamkos (@RealStamkos91) November 30, 2022
Maroon, 34, won three straight Stanley Cup championships as a member of the St. Louis Blues (2019) and Lightning (2020, 2021). He put up a combined six goals - three game-winners - and 17 points in 74 playoff games during those three runs.
The veteran has four assists in 22 games with the Bolts this season.