A very happy man

MONTREAL – Heading into his second full season with the Canadiens, Paul Byron firmly believes his best is yet to come.

After being claimed off waivers last October from the Calgary Flames, Byron lit the lamp a career-high 11 times in 62 games, and generated 18 points while proving to be a defensive specialist, particularly on the penalty kill. Not only was Byron the Canadiens’ second-most utilized forward in short-handed situations in 2015-16, but he also led Michel Therrien’s troops with three short-handed markers as well.

In February, the Canadiens signed Byron to a three-year contract, making certain that the speedy left-winger would get a chance to continue making strides in his game for a team that puts quickness among its top priorities when bringing players on board.

“I think last year it was just a start for me. I really feel like I fit into the style of play here. I think I‘m just going to continue getting better,” said the 27-year-old Ottawa native, who is very much looking forward to his first training camp experience with the Canadiens. “There was an adjustment period coming over, but I was given the time to learn the system. That seemed to help me before being put in a game. I think I have a lot more to bring to this team, though. I want to keep pushing and improving.”

Inking that three-year deal long before the end of the season meant the world to Byron, who had dealt with his fair share of uncertainty in the past. If anything, it provided him with peace of mind knowing that he wouldn’t be on the move again anytime soon.

“It was a little weird watching free agency on July 1st and not worrying about it or panicking. It was refreshing, and it just kind of reassured me,” shared …

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