In 1988, the Boston Bruins gave their fans a moment of pure magic. They broke a 45-year curse by finally defeating the Montreal Canadiens in the playoffs and charged into the Stanley Cup Final. At the heart of that unforgettable journey was Lyndon Byers. Byers was known as a fan favorite, a fierce competitor, and a beloved soul of the team. His grit and spirit defined an era of Bruins hockey. Today, those cherished memories are tinged with sorrow, as the NHL community mourns the loss of not just a player but a legend. Lyndon Byers is no more with us. He took his last breath on June 5. The world of hockey feels a little dimmer without his light.

His wife Annie wrote on Facebook about the star’s demise. It’s a well-known fact that LB’s son and wife survived him. But the hockey world lost him too early. His wife, Annie, did not mention the reason behind Byers’ passing. But she wrote a heartfelt message to his fans on Facebook. “Please know (or as LB would have said, ‘not for nothing’) we recognize how many people loved and cared for him and considered him a friend. Keep LB in your memory, remember his smile, and know how much he cared about all of you.” She wrote and also requested to give them some space as she and her son couldn’t register what had happened. 

Following her post and the tragic news, the Boston Bruins paid tribute to Byers. Sharing a Facebook post, the Black and Gold community said, said, “Lyndon was a fan favorite across his nine seasons in the black and gold thanks to his rugged, rough-and-tumble style and was a key cog on the B’s teams that made trips to the Stanley Cup final in 1988 and 1990…A son of Nipawin, Saskatchewan, Lyndon became a true Bostonian and we will miss him dearly. He is forever a part of our Bruins’ family.” 

Byers scored 71 points (28 goals, 43 assists) and had 1,081 penalty minutes in his 279 games in the NHL. In fact, his 959 penalty minutes for the Bruins from 1983-92 still ranks Lyndon 11th on their all-time list. After his impactful 9 years, he played one year with the San Jose Sharks before ending his career in the (now-defunct) International Hockey League. But as potent as he was on the ice, the community also remembers him for the person he was off it.

NHL fans are in mourning after losing Lyndon Byers 

Fans also reacted to the demise of the legend with heavy hearts. One fan commented on the Bruins’ post, remembering a strong, memorable moment with Byers: “This is the hardest hit for me yet when it comes to athletes passing. LB was an open book. I met him at an AAF event and asked for an autograph. He went to his pickup and brought in a stick from his beer league – and signed it for my kid. Stay Tough. Prayers to Annie and Will.” Another fan was also in shock after hearing this upsetting update. 

Another admirer wrote under the post, “This absolutely su–s. LB was a part of the morning for my son and me for years, waiting to hear that intro…’AAAAAND NOW…LB!!’ My condolences to his wife, Annie, and especially his son, Will. He talked about Will so much it’s almost like we knew him a little.” After his hockey career, Byers co-hosted The Hill-Man Morning Show on WAAF and made several appearances in the TV show Rescue Me, and cameos in the films Shallow Hal, Stuck on You, and others.

Remembering his legacy, a fan said, “The legacy of Lyndon Byers will always resonate within the hearts of fans and players alike. His dedication to the game and the community is an inspiration. May the warmth of cherished memories bring comfort to his loved ones during this difficult time.” Meanwhile, another fan wrote, “I am very sorry to hear of Lyndon’s passing. He entertained me as a player and a radio personality. He bled black and gold. R.I.P. LB. 🙏🏒.” And lastly, a fan bid adieu to Lyndon, saying, “The fans love ya and will remember 34. Rest Easy, Kid.” May Lyndon rest in peace. We send his family and close ones strength in these trying times.