Pat Maroon launches campaign to support Tampa Bay mental health non-profit in response to broadcaster’s fat-shaming comments

Tampa Bay Lightning forward Pat Maroon made a $2,000 donation to a local mental health non-profit on Wednesday in response to fat-shaming comments made by Boston Bruins play-by-play commentator Jack Edwards.

Edwards took aim at Maroon for his size during the first period of Tuesday’s game between the Bruins and Lightning, suggesting that the veteran forward seldom goes “four hours without a meal.”

“Listed at 238 pounds, that was Day 1 of training camp,” Edwards said during the broadcast. “I’ve got a feeling that he’s had a few more pizzas between then and now.”

Maroon, 34, won three consecutive Stanley Cup championships between 2019 and 2021 (the first one with the St. Louis Blues, the latter two with Tampa Bay) and helped the Lightning return to the Final in 2022.

The St. Louis product responded by donating to Tampa Bay Thrives in Edwards’ name and asking fans around the league to do the same.

“In support of those struggling with mental health, bullying and body image I am making a $2,000 donation in the name of Jack Edwards to Tampa Bay Thrives and I encourage Lightning and NHL fans to join me,” Maroon tweeted.

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

Maroon has four points (all assists) in 22 games with the Lightning this season. He originally joined the Lighting as an unrestricted free agent from the Blues in 2019.

The Philadelphia Flyers selected Maroon in the sixth round (No. 161 overall) of the 2007 NHL Draft. Maroon never played for the Flyers before being traded to the Anaheim Ducks, with whom he made his NHL debut in 2011–12.

In 671 career NHL games with the Ducks, Edmonton Oilers, New Jersey Devils, Blues, and Lightning, Maroon has scored 112 goals and 278 points. He’s added 23 goals and 50 points in 144 playoff contests while acting as a physical presence en route to those three Cup titles.