Throughout the entire Dustin Byfuglien/Winnipeg Jets situation that dragged on for months, there was plenty of speculation that the relationship between the player and team had become quite strained. Even if that is indeed the case, it appears Byfuglien and his family have nothing but love for the city of Winnipeg.

Byfuglien's wife Emily has posted a lengthy update on Instagram expressing her gratitude to Winnipeg for welcoming the couple and being the birth city of their three children.

After 8 years of playing for Winnipeg, this chapter of our life comes to a close.

I have nothing but gratitude towards the Jets for an amazing 8 years in Winnipeg. What an awesome experience it has been. From having our first baby here, to now raising 3 kids in this much loved community. We have grown up together and as a family here, and I wouldn't change that for the world. The support from Winnipeggers has been overwhelming. I appreciate all of you that have reached out to me with support and kindness.

No one can know for certain what their future may bring. I never thought for a second our time here would be cut short under these circumstances. The past 8 months have been the hardest of my life. I struggled to come to terms with the situation. I struggled as a wife and as a mother under the stress. I didn't want any of it to be true. This has been the only life I've known for a long time, and I am beyond devastated to have to leave here. I love this city, and the people in it. I had the best 8 years of Dustin's NHL career here in Winnipeg.

I am going to miss every second of Dustin playing here. I'll miss these amazing girls who are some of my absolute best friends. I'll miss the schools, activities, and sports for the kids. There is just something about Winnipeg that is different. People feel like, and treat you like family, and I'm so grateful to have experienced this.

I will always be a Winnipegger at heart. Thank you so much to this city and the Jets organization for everything.

Byfuglien's contract with the Jets was officially terminated Friday. He had been suspended by the team for failing to show up at training camp in September. That move sparked a series of events, including ankle surgery and a grievance by the NHLPA on Byfuglien's behalf. All of that has been dropped with the contract termination. Byfuglien left $14 million dollars on the table in order to end his relationship with the Winnipeg Jets.