Canadiens ink Paul Byron to 3-year extension

General manager Marc Bergevin has closed in on a deal with pending UFA forward Paul Byron for the next three seasons, on Tuesday evening. The deal is reported to be at $3.5M, carrying an annual cap hit of $1.6M, per Pierre LeBrun of ESPN.

Marc Bergevin on the extension of Paul Byron:  "We are pleased to have reached an agreement with Paul Byron. "A fast-skating and versatile forward Paul has been an important addition to our team. He can contribute on the offensive side while being responsible defensively. Furthermore, he demonstrates an exemplary attitude and the qualities of a true professional. We’re proud to have him among our group of forwards for the next three seasons."

In 40 games this season, the Ottawa native has recorded 8 goals (3 of whom have been short-handed) and 3 assists for a total of 11 points. The Montreal Canadiens claimed Byron off waivers from the Calgary Flames on October 6th, 2015.

#41 Paul Byron - (Photograph by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)