Desharnais: I'm leaving Montreal 'with a heavy heart'

It's not easy leaving the only team you've ever played for.

That's the sentiment expressed by David Desharnais after he was traded to the Edmonton Oilers on Tuesday for defenseman Brandon Davidson.

"I'm leaving with a heavy heart, but I have to look at this as a professional. This is a chance to continue my career." - Desharnais

- Canadiens Montri(C)al (@CanadiensMTL) March 1, 2017

Montreal's trajectory during Desharnais' time with the club was a bit up and down, but the Canadiens lead the Atlantic Division with a good shot at advancing to the Eastern Conference Finals, hence the disappointment of leaving with unfinished business on his plate.

But Desharnais is looking ahead for now, with a view to helping the Oilers clinch a playoff spot and make good on a promising future in Edmonton.

"There were highs and lows, but I'm only taking away the positives. This will help me grow. I'm leaving with my head held high." -Desharnais pic.twitter.com/kMOdbWdIDB

- Canadiens Montri(C)al (@CanadiensMTL) March 1, 2017

Desharnais added, "I hope that my story and path will inspire others," and that he would recommend Montreal as a destination for any player.

The undrafted center appeared in 435 games for the Canadiens since 2010, recording 79 goals and 171 assists for 250 points.

Copyright (C) 2017 Score Media Ventures Inc. All rights reserved. Certain content reproduced under license.