Paul Bissonnette

History

The Welland, Ontario native was drafted 31st overall by the now relocated North Bay Centennials in the 2001 OHL Priority Draft. He played 57 games in his rookie season and managed to accumulate 6 points (3 goals and 3 assists). After the 2001-02 OHL season, North Bay relocated to Saginaw and became the Spirit. Bissonnette was named an assistant captain to Chris Thorburn to start the 2002-03 OHL season. He was a member of Canada’s gold medal winning Under 18 team in 2002. Bissonnette was named the MVP of the CHL Top Prospects game, after finishing the game with a goal and scrap with top defensive prospect Dion Phaneuf. He finished the 2002-03 OHL season with an improved 7 goals and 16 assists in 67 games. The Penguins used their fifth pick in the 2003 draft to select Bissonnette in the 4th round at 121st overall. At training camp entering this season, he was the last junior aged cut and did much to extend his stay and impress the coaching staff in Pittsburgh. After being sent back to Saginaw, Bissonnette was named captain entering the 2003-04 OHL season. Named to the Western Conference All star team.

2007-08: The physical defenseman started the season playing for the Wheeling Nailers of the ECHL but was quickly called up in mid-December to the AHL and remained a staple through out the regular season and into the playoffs.

Talent Analysis

Paul Bissonnette is a steady, mostly stay at home defenseman who clears the net and helps to keep the puck out of the net. He’s a very hard worker and is an outstanding leader, both on the ice and in the locker room. He has a nice shot and possesses some raw offensive abilities, which allow him to join the rush or quarterback the powerplay if need be. Bissonnette is an improving physical player who will drop the gloves to protect his teammates. His skating is improving, but still needs work for once he reaches the professional level. Bissonnette is also going to need to improve his consistency if he should want to crack the NHL.