Paul Byron emptied his heart on Instagram
If there is one player who has gone through many emotional stages this year, it is forward Paul Byron. Yes, the restrictions due to COVID-19 have inevitably created difficulties that people are not aware of, but there is also the hockey aspect.
The 32-year-old veteran had his name put on the ballot a few times last season, as well as being waltzed around on multiple threes repeatedly. Despite this, Paul Byron has always maintained a strong work ethic, as well as a high level of morale.
He was keen to share his thoughts on the most recent year via Instagram. Once again, Byron even kept his illustrative class when sharing his powerful message.
"It's been 3 weeks now since the final game and I still haven't realized how close we were to the ultimate goal. The last year and a half has been one of the hardest years of my life. The ups and downs of the playoffs cannot be compared to any other experience I have had in my life. I am sincerely proud of my teammates and I am so honored to have been a part of this incredible journey. The future is very bright on this team, there are so many talented young players, in addition to the good veterans, not to mention the young prospects in the organization coming up. Becoming as close as we have been only motivates me to work harder and harder each year, considering the level of competition that increases as the seasons progress. My priority right now is to push myself and work even harder than before to be able to bring something to the team and hopefully reach our goals next season. I know that I am capable of taking my game up a notch and becoming a dynamic and consistent player again for next season."
Paul Byron also wanted to address the fans. He mentioned the importance of the fans' support and presence throughout the past season.
"The thing I will remember about this year was how much we missed the fans and the incredible atmosphere in the best arena in the world. The energy we felt when we jumped on the ice, with fans for the first time in 14 months, it was amazing. We felt like there were 15,000 people in the stands, which gave us an adrenaline rush that we had missed. The atmosphere and buzz around town during the playoffs is something I will always remember and hope to have the chance to experience again in the years to come. It was a very long year and a half for everyone. So to be able to live this adventure alongside you guys was magical. I'm so looking forward to playing at the Bell Centre again next season, hopefully at full capacity."
Byron ended it all by thanking everyone around him.
"Thank you to all my teammates, the coaching staff, everyone in the organization for their hard work, discipline, and many hours spent on making the 2020-2021 season a reality."
"Thank you also to my wife Sarah, my children Elianna and Brysen, also to all my family and friends, who always stood by me and supported me throughout the playoffs, despite the games that could end late in the West."
"Thanks to the best Montreal Canadiens fans who make it special to play here."
"Have a great summer everyone, see you soon. Go Habs Go!"
