He formerly played in the National Hockey League (NHL) with the Boston Bruins, New York Rangers and Columbus Blue Jackets.

McQuaid was known primarily as an enforcer for his physical play and capability as a fighter, often protecting younger or smaller members of the team.

He returned to the OHL and did not play a game with Columbus before he was traded to the Boston Bruins in exchange for a fifth-round draft pick in the off-season.

[1] He was assigned to Boston's American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, the Providence Bruins in 2007–08 and scored nine points in his professional rookie season.

He scored his first NHL goal on February 7, 2010, a game-winner against goaltender Jaroslav Halák in a 3–0 win against the Montreal Canadiens at the Bell Centre.

[7] McQuaid added a physical presence on the blueline of the rebuilding Rangers, and recorded 2 goals and 5 points through 36 games.

[12] His sister, Michelle McQuaid, competed at the 2015, 2017, 2018 and 2019 Scotties Tournament of Hearts representing Prince Edward Island.