Hello NHL.com readers,
A lot has happened since I last wrote.
On Dec. 8, I learned that I was going to be traded to the Drummondville Voltigeurs at the opening of the trading period. As you can imagine, there were some long and tough days once that happened.
I kind of knew I was going to get traded somewhere, though I wasn't sure when and where. But I approved of the decision and I think I'm in a good situation now. I've joined a good, young team and I'm really excited about that. Obviously, it was a good trade for Saint John as well because they are rebuilding.
So, it's a good trade for both sides.
Once the trade was set, I had to sit out the next four games to avoid risking an injury. But I decided to remain in Saint John so that I could spend a little more time with my billet family and my teammates. It was hard, but I wanted to take those weeks to stay and hang out with them. Even if I wasn't playing, I would go watch their games and be with the team. I just wanted to spend as much time as I could with them.
You know, I spent 2 1/2 years in Saint John. It was my second home and it was just really sad to leave. I want to thank the Sea Dogs fans for all their support. They're some of the greatest fans in the league and they never stopped cheering us on. That team deserves another championship. The city is very welcoming and it's one of the best places to play junior hockey. They really made my time memorable there and supported me on and off the ice. I am really grateful for what they did for me.
And now I have joined a talented team that is very well coached by Dominique Ducharme. The Voltigeurs are having a really good season even though they weren't expected to be this strong. Our chances of winning are improving but I think next year is more the plan. It's a hard-working team that is gaining experience. I'm sure that we're going to have fun and do some good with that.
For my part, I took advantage of the holiday break to get some rest. I spent some time with my family and with friends I hadn't seen for a while. Even though I didn't play for nearly three weeks, I continued to work out and I continued to practice with the Sea Dogs before returning to Montreal.
I went back to the gym and hit the rink a few times during the break to make sure I was ready for my first games with the Voltigeurs.
We'll talk again next month!
