Hockey fans in Canada just love to help out.

Monday, Senators forward Bobby Ryan penned a letter in the Players' Tribune titled "Why Not Us," chronicling Ottawa's transformation from a middle of the pack squad to Stanley Cup contender.

At the start of the piece, Ryan discussed what it was like for him to interact with fans in Ottawa during the 14-game goal drought that he went through this season. While the fans who offered the winger advice on how to break out of his funk had good intentions, Ryan detailed how the interactions inevitably led to him avoiding any and all trips to the grocery store.

I had to stop going to the grocery store this season. 

For one reason or another, the grocery store has always been where I get recognized the most in Ottawa. I can hang out in pretty much any restaurant or bar and be in the clear, but at the grocery store I’ll pretty much always be spotted. For the most part, I’ve always enjoyed that. Engaging fans is one of the most rewarding things about making it to the NHL. But one thing you learn after playing in Canada for a while is that Canadian hockey fans are … honest. 

I might be in the produce aisle squeezing a tomato or something when an elderly woman will approach me. 

“Pardon, but are you Bobby Ryan from the Senators?” 

I’ll perk up, clear my throat, and in my best I’m A Professional voice respond, “Yes ma’am, it’s a pleasure to meet you.” 

And without hesitating, she’ll go full beat-reporter on me, “You haven’t scored in a while, eh? Maybe you’re holding the puck too long at the point?” - (Players' Tribune)

Again, while Ryan quite clearly enjoys interacting with fans outside of the arena, there's a big difference between talking hockey with a professional player and critiquing his work while he's just trying to get his groceries. So what was Ryan's solution to the situation, aside from politely brushing it off? Cutting his trips to the grocery store.

After hearing that, I might set the tomato down (or maybe squeeze it harder, I’m not sure) before responding. My impulse will be to defend myself, so I’ll say something like, “Well, uh, yeah, I’ve been in a bit of a slump. But I managed to redirect a couple of pucks last game, and I think the goals are going to start comi—” 

And that’s when I’ll stop myself and think, Why the hell am I talking about my job at the grocery store? 

That type of scenario played out a lot this season. By the time I’d get home, my wife would be confused because I’d be super stressed-out from buying a couple of bags of groceries. Eventually she started doing the shopping. It was for the best, I suppose. - (Players' Tribune)

That seems like something most sports fans could agree with. No player likes going through a drought, and they undoubtedly work their hardest to turn things around, so they don't really need to hear pointers while they're out and about on the town.

If you haven't given Ryan's full letter a read, we strongly suggest that you do, as the forward details the shift in culture that has allowed the Senators to surprise the hockey world with their postseason success. As well, check out Cabbie's most recent interview with Ryan where they discuss the Sens chances of winning the Stanley Cup.

(H/T: Players' Tribune)