Former Edmonton Oilers forward Pat Maroon recently reflected on his time with the team during an appearance on Oilersnation Everyday. Maroon, who spent three seasons with the Oilers from 2016 to 2018, shared fond memories of his memorable tenure, particularly his involvement in ending the franchise’s 11-year playoff drought in 2017.
Maroon was part of a pivotal team that advanced to the playoffs, showcasing a mix of seasoned players and rising stars, including Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. The Oilers achieved an impressive playoff victory over the San Jose Sharks but fell to the Anaheim Ducks in a hard-fought seven-game series in the second round. Reflecting on that series, Maroon expressed the pain of a missed opportunity, citing a crucial Game 5 where the team led 3-0 with just three minutes remaining.
The insights Maroon provided highlighted the importance of those postseason experiences for the development of players like McDavid and Draisaitl. He noted how crucial the learning moments from those games contributed to their growth as players and ultimately, their subsequent successes in later seasons.
Maroon also praised Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, calling him a fantastic teammate and an integral part of the Oilers’ culture. He emphasized Nugent-Hopkins’ commitment to the team, remarking on his willingness to take a pay cut to remain in Edmonton while striving for a Stanley Cup.
Despite his retirement after a commendable 14-season NHL career, Maroon conveyed optimism for the current Oilers squad. He expressed hope that the lessons learned from previous playoff experiences will propel the team toward a deep run this season.
Maroon’s words serve as a reminder of the team’s rich history and the potential for future success, highlighting the enduring spirit of the Oilers’ fan base and the dedication of its players.