COMING TOGETHER
Andrew Shaw arrived in Montreal this summer with two Stanley Cup rings in his bags, and a healthy knowledge of what it takes to win in the playoffs; more than just practice, it also takes chemistry.
"There are what, 12 games left? This is when we need to step up, and it's going to be a huge challenge for us to play a good Ottawa team. They've been great in the last stretch here, so we need to show them that we're ready for it -- we're prepared -- and we're willing to go the extra mile to get the win," stressed the 25-year-old. "This is the time of year that builds the chemistry in the locker room. It shows the character of the team, and that's something you need going into the playoffs. It's going to be a tough weekend, but we like the challenge."
Tough in more ways than one. The Senators play a robust style of hockey, but that's where newcomers Andreas Martinsen, Dwight King, and Steve Ott come in.
"Ottawa is a big team, so the new guys will help us add another dimension to our game," added Byron, who at 5-foot-9 and 160 pounds, is at the opposite end of the Habs' size spectrum.
But what he may lack in physicality, he makes up for with speed and scoring touch, as the 27-year-old is now just one goal shy of hitting 20 on the season for the first time in his career.
Not to mention the fact that he'll now have the chance to hit the milestone against his hometown club.
"Things have been going well for me this year, so I won't try to change my game," said the former Flames forward.
Teammate Danault is a little less humble when it comes to the second-year Hab.
"Pauly is a player who inspires me. He's small, but he plays like he's 6-foot-5. He's a strong, talented, fast playmaker. I think he's the complete package, offensively and defensively," detailed the former Blackhawk. "He's proved a lot this year, so it's only a matter of time before he hits 20 goals, and I don't just mean this season."