Paul Byron, Re-Introducing Your Calgary Flames
By Len Nunes
Mar 22, 2014; Edmonton, Alberta, CAN; Calgary Flames forward Paul Byron (32) scores against Edmonton Oilers goaltender Victor Fasth (35) during the second period at Rexall Place. Mandatory Credit: Perry Nelson-USA TODAY Sports
Paul Byron’s 2013-14 season ended 22 minutes and 34 seconds before the rest of his Calgary Flames teammates. In the word’s of Flames President of Hockey Operations Brian Burke from the ESPN article covering the story of Vancouver Canuck Daniel Sedin being injured:
"“”Paul Byron hit him. We think it’s a hockey play. We don’t think it’s worth five minutes. We don’t think it’s worth further review. Call a five-minute penalty because the player is hurt, that’s fine with us.””"
The 2014-15 starts with the Calgary Flames and Vancouver Canucks playing each. Worries about hard feelings between Paul Byron and Daniel Sedin should not be an issue because as also reported in the ESPN article:
"The players in question seemed ready to move on. Byron said he texted Sedin on Monday morning to apologize for the hit.“He responded,” Byron said. “I think he appreciated the text and I’m really glad he’s OK.”"
Although the Calgary Flames opted to allow Paul Byron to become an unrestricted free agent instead of a restricted free agent, Byron was signed to a one year deal only three days into the free agency period. According to Rotoworld.com the contract is a one-way contract.
Byron started last season with the Abbotsford Heat. In 22 AHL games, Byron scored 5 goals and collected 18 assists. On Saturday, November 30th, Byron played his first 2013-14 game for the Calgary Flames. In 47 games last season with the Calgary Flames (more than doubling his career total of games played) Byron scored 7 goals and collected 14 assists.
With no detour scheduled to the AHL Adirondack Flames, can 70+ games from Paul Byron help fill some of the void left by the free agent departure of Mike Cammalleri?
Here is The Hockey News breakdown of Paul Byron:
"Assets: Has good breakaway speed and is a solid two-way forward with a little offensive upside. Does not play scared. Can play both wing and center.Flaws: His lack of size will be an issue for as long as he’s playing professional hockey, particularly defensively. Lacks high-end talent."
Paul Byron is listed as 5’7″ 158 pounds…he’s not even the smallest listed Calgary Flame!! Last season, the NHL had 236 players score at least 11 goals. Methinks a healthy Paul Byron makes that list this season.