Paul Byron officially announced his retirement in a letter to his supporters on Wednesday. The Montreal Canadiens announced that he would remain with the organization as a player development advisor.

“After several months of considering the best decision for my health and my family’s future, I came to the conclusion that it would be best to retire as a professional hockey player. After many long rehab sessions, therapies, consultations and conversations with various doctors trying to get back in the game and continue the job I love so much, the decision was clear.

“Throughout my life I have managed to defy all odds and prove my critics wrong. I hoped for a long time that I would be able to do this again, and that made the decision so difficult for me. But the reality is that due to injuries sustained in my last game and previous seasons, I am no longer able to train, skate, or perform at the level required to be a professional hockey player is. »

The 34-year-old former forward played his last game in a Canadiens jersey on April 19, 2022. He amassed 208 points (98 goals, 110 assists) during a 521-game career spanning 12 seasons, including the last seven with the Habs. The sixth-round pick (179th overall) of the Buffalo Sabers in 2007 scored 11 points in 38 playoff games.

In his letter, Byron made sure to thank the three organizations he played for, the Sabres, the Calgary Flames and the Canadiens, and specifically mentioned the CH fans.

“I would also like to thank all Canadiens fans for the incredible support they have always shown me and the passion they have for the team,” Byron wrote. Your energy and pride can be felt not only at the Bell Center, but also in many cities along the road. They make playing for the Montreal Canadiens an experience like no other. »

Byron has always expressed his interest in remaining with the Canadiens in a different role after his career ends and his plea has been heard. The Canadiens announced shortly after his letter was published that he had been hired as a player development consultant.

“On behalf of the entire organization, I would like to congratulate Paul on his long career as a professional hockey player,” said Canadiens President and CEO Geoff Molson, the owner said. “Through his tremendous contributions on and off the ice, Paul perfectly embodies what it means to be a Montreal Canadiens player. Through his leadership, kindness and community presence, Paul has left his mark during his seven seasons in Montreal and we are thrilled to have him join the player development department. His experience, communication and approach will be beneficial to both our players and our prospects. »