TORONTO — Pat Maroon didn’t want to talk about his reaction to Max Domi’s shoulder bump on Bruins goalie Jeremy Swayman during a TV timeout in Boston’s Game 3 victory.
Maroon had to be held back from Domi in the moment and was vocal on the bench about it. Jim Montgomery was happy to talk about it for him. He liked Maroon’s reaction on the ice and the way he talked about it on the bench.
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“It puts everybody in better awareness, more alertness and that we have to be aware of everything,” Montgomery said. “There’s a reason why he understands the game within the game. It’s something he brings along with his play.”
Montgomery said he’s happy to sit back when his leaders have a message to deliver to their teammates.
“I back off and listen because it’s so much, it’s a lot more effective when it comes from within,” he said.
Maroon is just five games into his Bruins career, but his voice already has the respect of the room.
“Patty is great in the room and on the bench, just the emotion he brings. He’s so good at calming things down when emotions get high,” Bruins captain Brad Marchand said. “In the playoffs, momentum swings are such a big part of it. He’s very good at making sure we stay even keel and picking us up when we get down and calming us down when we get up. He’s been a great addition to the group.”
His young linemates Johnny Beecher and Jesper Boqvist have been especially attentive.
“He’s been huge for me and Boqs. The guy has three cups for a reason,” Beecher said. “He knows how to play and play winning hockey. That’s what it comes down to at this time of year. He’s been great for us.”
Maroon said his willingness to be vocal comes naturally.
“When you’re vocal, especially on the bench in the room, it’s a sign that you’re engaged, you’re in the game,” he said.
After missing over two months following back surgery, Maroon said he feels healthy.
“It’s been great. I’m just trying to play my game, whatever that is. Trying to fill a role, play my game, win my battles and make those subtle plays in the O-Zone and the zone and try to hold onto pucks,” he said. “I’m feeling pretty good right now. I’m still trying to get in the flow of things. It’s only going to be my fifth game coming up. Just have to keep pushing and keep grinding through.”
